Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky said Sunday that Russia launched 267 attack drones in an overnight assault, marking the largest drone strike since the war began. He condemned Russia’s “aerial terror” and urged Ukraine’s allies to strengthen military support.
“Every day, our people stand against aerial terror,” Zelensky wrote on X. He called for additional air defense systems to counter the growing number of Russian drone attacks.
The assault came just before the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Russian forces targeted multiple cities and villages, using Iranian-made Shahed drones to strike key infrastructure.
Ukraine’s Air Force reported that air defense systems intercepted over 200 drones. However, several still managed to hit energy facilities, industrial sites, and residential areas, causing power outages and fires.
Kyiv’s military officials described the attack as part of Russia’s ongoing strategy to weaken Ukraine’s energy grid. Repeated drone and missile strikes have targeted power plants and electrical substations across the country.
“Russia is testing our defenses with constant drone waves,” a Ukrainian military spokesperson said. He stressed that while Ukraine’s air defense capabilities have improved, additional Western support is crucial.
Emergency response teams worked overnight to extinguish fires caused by drone strikes. Several buildings were damaged, forcing residents to evacuate in affected areas.
Ukraine has been preparing for increased Russian attacks during the winter months. Russian forces have escalated airstrikes to disrupt heating and electricity supplies for millions of civilians.
Military experts say Russia’s use of drones allows for large-scale attacks at a lower cost. Unlike missiles, drones can be deployed in swarms, overwhelming Ukrainian defenses.
Iran has denied direct involvement in Russia’s drone program. However, Western intelligence agencies have confirmed that Iranian-made Shahed drones are being used in Ukraine.
Ukraine’s ability to shoot down drones has improved due to Western-supplied air defense systems. U.S. and European countries have pledged additional military aid, including Patriot missiles and NASAMS.
Despite these defenses, Ukrainian officials say Russia continues to adapt its tactics. Moscow is using mixed attacks, combining drones and missiles to increase the chances of hitting targets.
Zelensky has repeatedly urged NATO members to speed up military deliveries. He argues that without stronger air defenses, Russia’s attacks will cause greater destruction and loss of life.
Western leaders condemned the latest Russian assault. The European Union is considering new sanctions against Russia and companies supplying drone technology.
“These attacks show Russia’s disregard for human life,” a European Commission spokesperson said. Officials say additional sanctions could target Iranian suppliers involved in drone production.
Ukraine has responded to Russian strikes with its own counterattacks. In recent weeks, Ukrainian forces have hit Russian military bases, oil depots, and supply lines.
Kyiv’s military intelligence reported that Ukrainian drones successfully targeted Russian facilities in Crimea and near the Black Sea. These attacks aim to weaken Russia’s logistical operations.
The United States has warned that Russia may expand its drone warfare. U.S. intelligence reports suggest that Moscow is increasing drone production and seeking new suppliers.
Ukraine’s energy infrastructure remains a primary target of Russian airstrikes. Repeated attacks on power plants have left millions facing electricity shortages during the winter.
Officials have urged civilians to conserve electricity and prepare for emergency blackouts. Some cities have introduced power rationing to manage the strain on the grid.
The war, now nearing its third year, remains a battle of endurance. Russia aims to exhaust Ukraine’s defenses, while Ukraine continues to rely on Western aid for survival.
The coming weeks could see further escalation. Ukrainian officials expect more drone attacks as Russia intensifies its aerial campaign.
