Russia carried out its biggest air assault on Ukraine overnight, launching hundreds of drones and missiles just hours after a phone call between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin ended without progress.
Explosions echoed across Kyiv as drones filled the night sky and Ukraine’s air defence systems sprang into action. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that 23 people were injured in the attack, which involved 539 drones and 11 missiles. Ukraine’s air force described the strike as the largest since the start of the invasion.
Zelensky criticised Russia’s ongoing aggression, stating that Moscow continues to show no signs of backing down. He urged the United States to increase pressure on the Kremlin, describing Russia’s actions as “dumb and destructive.”
The timing of the attack raised tensions further. According to Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga, it demonstrated Putin’s clear disregard for international calls to end the war.
As sirens wailed across cities, many residents in Kyiv sought shelter in underground metro stations. The assault follows a worrying trend: Russia launched a record number of attacks in June, according to AFP figures, while peace talks between both nations remain at a standstill.
Meanwhile, concerns are growing in Ukraine over reduced U.S. military support. Washington recently announced a cutback in military aid, prompting EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to call for increased support from European allies.
President Trump, who had previously expressed optimism after conversations with Putin, admitted no headway was made during their latest exchange. His frustration with the Russian leader has grown in recent months, despite his earlier attempts at diplomacy.
In response to Russia’s ongoing strikes, Ukraine has also stepped up drone attacks inside Russian territory. A woman was killed when a Ukrainian drone hit an apartment building, according to local officials.
The overnight barrage signals a dangerous new chapter in the war, as diplomatic channels stall and military actions intensify on both sides.
