Ukraine Reports Largest Drone Assault from Russia Since the Invasion Began: What You Need to Know

Ukraine recently reported its largest drone attack by Russia since the beginning of the full-scale invasion. This assault struck several regions, including Kyiv, leading to the tragic death of a woman.

The drone barrage occurred just before a scheduled call between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump has been advocating for a ceasefire amid ongoing tensions. On the same day, Russia and Ukraine held their first face-to-face talks in Turkey in over three years, resulting in a prisoner swap agreement but little else.

According to Ukraine’s air force, Russia launched a staggering 273 drones by early Sunday morning, targeting central Kyiv and the Dnipropetrovsk and Donetsk regions. Ukrainian forces managed to intercept 88 of these drones, while 128 others veered off course without causing damage. Despite these measures, the attacks claimed one life and injured three others, including a four-year-old child.

The previous significant drone strike from Russia took place exactly three years into the invasion, with 267 drones launched at that time. Russia’s military claimed it intercepted 25 Ukrainian drones during the recent attacks.

In remarks made after the strikes, Ukrainian officials emphasized that Russia shows no interest in halting the war, despite international calls for a ceasefire. Andriy Yermak, a senior aide to Ukraine’s president, stated, "For Russia, the negotiations are just a pretence. Putin wants war."

Historical context suggests that these developments follow a long pattern of aggression from Russia. The conflict has roots that go back to 2014 when Russia annexed Crimea. Today, Russia controls about 20% of Ukraine’s territory.

In recent discussions, President Zelensky of Ukraine expressed readiness to accept a ceasefire proposal put forth by Trump. However, Russia’s response demands that military supplies to Ukraine be halted, and negotiations should address the war’s origin. Putin’s terms include demanding Ukraine remain neutral and reduce its military capabilities—conditions Ukraine firmly rejects.

Amid these discussions, Zelensky also engaged with global leaders, including a private meeting with Pope Leo at the Vatican, where they discussed the urgent need for sanctions against Russia and pathways to peace.

These developments come as public sentiment grows increasingly divided. On social media, many users express frustration over the ongoing violence while others voice support for Ukraine’s resistance. This situation highlights a complex landscape of international relations, military strategy, and public opinion that continues to evolve.

For more details, you can access BBC News for updates and in-depth analyses.

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