Russia has claimed that its air defenses intercepted 347 Ukrainian drones overnight, in what appears to be a significant aerial assault following Moscow's rejection of a ceasefire proposal earlier this week. The attack, reported by Russia's Defense Ministry on Thursday, comes as tensions escalate ahead of Russia's Victory Day celebrations.
Massive Drone Attack Across Russian Regions
According to the Russian Defense Ministry, incoming drones were destroyed over 20 regions, including the capital Moscow. This marks Ukraine's second-largest aerial attack since the full-scale invasion began over four years ago, surpassed only by a 389-drone assault in March.
The timing of the attack is notable, as Russia prepares for its most important secular holiday on May 9, commemorating the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II. In response, Russian authorities had declared a unilateral ceasefire for Friday and Saturday, but Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Moscow ignored the gesture and continued military operations.
Ukraine's Response and Escalation
Ukraine had suspended hostilities from midnight Tuesday following Russia's ceasefire announcement. However, Zelenskyy said in his evening address on Wednesday that Russia did not halt any military activity and that Ukraine would act symmetrically. He stated, "Russia has not stopped any type of its military activity. Unfortunately, it has not stopped. Ukraine will act symmetrically."
Meanwhile, tension has been mounting as U.S.-led peace efforts stall. Russian authorities have implemented strict security measures for Victory Day, including shutting down mobile internet and text messaging services in Moscow on May 9, as reported by state media citing the Ministry of Digital Development. For the first time in nearly two decades, the traditional parade will not feature tanks, missiles, or other military equipment, with the Defense Ministry citing the "current operational situation." Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov blamed Ukraine's "terrorist activity" for the scaled-back celebrations and heightened security.
Connectivity Restrictions and Ukrainian Defense
The restrictions will also include websites on the Russian government's "white list" of state-approved online services, which remain accessible during frequent connectivity blackouts. Home internet and Wi-Fi will reportedly be unaffected.
On the Ukrainian side, the military said it shot down 92 of 102 drones launched by Russia overnight. Russia continues to hold a significant advantage in drone numbers, often deploying hundreds in a single attack.
