Russia launched a massive overnight attack on Ukraine, firing 45 drones and five missiles, according to the Ukrainian air force. Air defence systems successfully intercepted 32 of the drones, but several regions reported strikes and damage.
Strikes Across Ukraine
The attacks targeted multiple regions, including Kyiv, Kharkiv, and Sumy. In Kyiv, falling debris from downed drones caused a fire at a residential building, though no casualties were reported. In Kharkiv, a missile strike hit an industrial facility, injuring at least three people. Sumy region also reported damage to civilian infrastructure.
Ukraine's energy ministry said that the attacks caused power outages in several areas, with emergency crews working to restore electricity. The strikes come as Ukraine continues to face daily aerial assaults from Russian forces.
Air Defence Response
Ukraine's air force commander, Lieutenant General Mykola Oleshchuk, stated that the country's air defence units were on high alert and successfully neutralized the majority of the incoming threats. "Our defenders shot down 32 drones and four of the five missiles," he said. The remaining missile struck an industrial site in Kharkiv, causing the reported injuries.
The attack follows a pattern of Russian strikes targeting Ukraine's energy grid and civilian areas as winter approaches. Ukraine has repeatedly called for more Western air defence systems to protect its cities.
International Reaction
The European Union condemned the attacks, with EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell calling them "another example of Russia's indiscriminate warfare." The United States also pledged continued support, with the Pentagon announcing a new $200 million military aid package that includes additional air defence munitions.
Meanwhile, Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orbán sparked controversy by stating that Ukraine would "never win" the war, drawing criticism from Kyiv and EU officials. Hungary has maintained a pro-Russian stance throughout the conflict, often blocking EU aid to Ukraine.
