Ukraine bombarded Moscow with hundreds of drones in a ten-hour onslaught, as President Volodymyr Zelensky prepares to meet US President Donald Trump. As many as 390 drones were fired into the Moscow region overnight, with just 81 intercepted, though debris caused damage and panic. The attack lasted from 8:30pm to dawn, as the Ukrainian President drove home confidence that Kyiv is turning around the Russian full-scale invasion.
Warehouse Blaze and Wildberries Link
A logistics warehouse serving several Russian companies in the village of Koledino, 12 miles south of Moscow, was set ablaze. It is thought the complex is next to a storage facility for the Russian online retail giant Wildberries, which has been repeatedly attacked in recent weeks. Kyiv officials blame the attacks on claims that Wildberries — the Russian version of Amazon — is part of a defence supply chain for Kremlin forces. The company lists a range of military equipment on its website, including drone components and body armour, all of which can be used on the Ukraine frontline.
Zelensky's US Visit and Graham Tribute
Zelensky is due to discuss Ukraine’s air defence shortages with Trump and attend the funeral for late Senator Lindsey Graham. The Republican senator was a staunch supporter of Ukraine, and his final act as a public official was to visit Kyiv and secure an agreement on a new Russian sanctions package. President Zelensky posted before his Trump meeting: “I have already arrived in the United States. Our schedule includes meetings with President Trump, his team, and those who can support our defence. Our number-one priority is anti-ballistic defense and strategic cooperation with America. Peace needs to be brought closer. Of course, on behalf of all of Ukraine, we will honor the memory of Senator Lindsey Graham.” He added: “Together with everyone attending the ceremony in Washington, we will remember his commitment to security and freedom across the transatlantic community and around the world. Thank you to everyone who helps protect lives!”
Intensified Strikes and Russian Response
Ukrainian strikes have intensified in recent weeks as missiles and drones hit infrastructure in Russia and occupied territories day after day. Ukrainian drones struck neighbouring Belgorod and cities in southern Russia overnight on July 27, injuring 12 people, as a residential building and 15 parked cars were set ablaze. The attacks — often aimed at oil and gas facilities, companies and non-residential buildings — aim to cripple the Kremlin’s war chest and bring the war to ordinary people. War in Ukraine is growing increasingly unpopular with Russians who are seeing soaring gas prices, petrol shortages and anger against the Kremlin. Russia has conducted a campaign of missile and drone strikes against Ukrainian citizens, hoping to force plummeting morale and misery on ordinary people. At least 15 people were killed in Russian attacks on Ukraine just days ago: ten died in ballistic missile strikes on an exhibition near Kyiv showcasing drone technology, while five were killed by Russian glide bombs on Sloviansk.
