Ukraine’s air force reported that Russia executed its most extensive aerial assault since the beginning of the three-year war, launching 477 drones and decoys along with 60 missiles overnight. This latest wave focused on core critical infrastructure, including military-industrial complexes and oil refineries throughout Ukraine. Ahead of the invasion, the Russian military characterized its raid objectives as selectively targeting Ukraine’s defense capabilities.
All together, Russia has released upwards of 500 aerial munitions on Ukraine in one night. This new offensive comes on the heels of a weeklong barrage. At the same time, Russia fired more than 114,000 missiles, used more than 127,000 drones and rolled out nearly 110,000 glide bombs. The intensity of these strikes raises concerns about the ongoing conflict and highlights the need for increased defensive measures by Ukraine.
The Ukrainian military stated that they shot down three drones in the overnight attack. The air force suffered a tragic loss. An F-16 warplane, delivered by their western allies, was shot down after being damaged during a skirmish targeting enemy assets. While he was able to shoot down seven air threats, he lost his life due to aircraft malfunction.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has reacted to the news by condemning the weeklong torrent of Russian attacks. He claimed that such attacks expose President Vladimir Putin’s commitment to extend the war.
“Moscow will not stop as long as it has the capability to launch massive strikes,” – Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
In a welcome display of defiance, Zelenskyy signaled Ukraine’s determination to double down on improving its air defense systems. He stressed the need to strengthen offensive and defensive measures to ensure civilian lives are protected as violence escalates.
“Ukraine needs to strengthen its air defence – the thing that best protects lives,” – Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Zelenskyy placed himself at the center of that controversy. He reiterated Ukraine’s interest in obtaining U.S. air defense systems to bolster its defenses against ongoing Russian aggression. Simultaneously, he highlighted a crucial step taken by Ukraine’s government: the initiation of withdrawal from the international treaty banning antipersonnel landmines. That decision is an appropriate response to the realities of today’s battlefield. This is true, especially as Russian forces are actively using mines against both military and civilian targets.
Roman Kostenko, a representative from Ukraine’s parliament, underscored the necessity of this withdrawal by stating:
“This is a step that the reality of war has long demanded.”
He added that Russia’s disregard for international conventions regarding landmines necessitated a response from Ukraine.
“Russia is not a party to this convention and is massively using mines against our military and civilians. We cannot remain tied down in an environment where the enemy has no restrictions,” – Roman Kostenko.
Even as relations between Russia and the West worsen, Putin has expressed willingness for a new round of direct peace negotiations in Istanbul. Many are understandably skeptical that, even if there is a path forward, it would lead to one with Russia’s continued aggression.