Overnight into Saturday, Russia launched a substantial attack on Ukraine, deploying hundreds of drones and cruise missiles. This intensified bombing campaign has diminished hopes for a swift resolution to the ongoing conflict.
President Zelenskyy reported that Russia launched over 300 drones and more than 30 cruise missiles. In Odesa, one person was killed, and five were rescued from a residential building fire caused by the strikes. The city endured over 20 drone and missile strikes.
The attacks also resulted in injuries, including a child in Odesa, and damage to critical infrastructure in the Sumy region. Zelenskyy expressed gratitude to international leaders for their support in strengthening Ukraine’s defense capabilities through joint weapons production, drone manufacturing, and the supply of air defense systems.
Russia has been increasing its long-range attacks on Ukrainian cities, now deploying more drones in a single night than in some entire months earlier this year. Analysts anticipate further escalation of these barrages. Earlier this month, Russia launched a record number of over 700 drones.
Russia’s Defense Ministry claimed to have shot down 71 Ukrainian drones, while Moscow’s mayor reported 13 drones intercepted near the Russian capital.
Separately, Ukraine’s foreign minister accused Russia of deporting Ukrainian citizens, many of whom are former prisoners, into Georgia and leaving them without proper identification. These individuals are reportedly stranded in the transit zone, lacking necessary documentation. Russia has not yet responded to these allegations.
