ISLAMABAD (PEN) : In an unprecedented escalation of the ongoing war, Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskiy revealed that Russia launched more than 200 drones in a devastating overnight assault, marking the largest drone attack of the war. The assault, which took place just days before the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion, was described by Zelenskiy as “aerial terror.” He condemned the attack and urged Ukraine’s allies to stand together in solidarity.
“Every day, our people stand against aerial terror,” President Zelenskiy shared on social media, reflecting the relentless threat his country faces.
According to Zelenskiy, the overnight attack saw Russia deploying 267 drones — a record number since the use of Iranian-made drones began targeting Ukrainian cities and villages. The Ukrainian Air Force responded swiftly, downing 138 of the drones and causing another 119 to disappear from radar after being jammed by electronic warfare. Additionally, Russia launched three ballistic missiles during the attack, causing damage in five regions of Ukraine.
These drone strikes are part of Russia’s ongoing strategy of massed aerial assaults, designed to wear down Ukraine’s air defences. Over the past week alone, Zelenskiy reported, nearly 1,150 attack drones, 1,400 guided aerial bombs, and 35 different types of missiles had been launched at Ukraine.
Despite the relentless onslaught, Zelenskiy praised Ukraine’s air defence personnel for their courage and skill in intercepting the threats. In a heartfelt appeal, he called on Ukraine’s foreign allies to remain united, emphasizing that only through the collective strength of Europe, America, and all those seeking lasting peace, could a “just and lasting peace” be achieved.
The president’s call for unity comes at a time of growing tension. Kyiv and its European partners have expressed concern over recent comments made by US President Donald Trump, who criticized Zelenskiy last week. Additionally, Ukraine was notably excluded from a meeting between US and Russian representatives in Riyadh, deepening the unease within the Ukrainian leadership.
In the face of an unprecedented attack and mounting global pressures, Ukraine remains resolute, with Zelenskiy’s message of strength and unity echoing through the country’s fight for survival.
