Russia launched a significant daytime drone assault on Ukraine on Wednesday, deploying approximately 200 drones shortly after 9am UK time. Air raid alerts were activated across Ukraine as dozens of Shahed-type unmanned drones were tracked moving southwest past Kyiv.
Explosions Heard in Kyiv
Explosions from air defences were reported in the capital, with Ukrainian military intelligence confirming Russia targeted critical infrastructure facilities. Emergency services worked to extinguish fires following strikes, including one on a gas pipeline in the Dnipropetrovsk region.
Zelensky Warns of Further Attacks
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned of potential further drone attacks throughout the day, stating Russia is deliberately targeting railway infrastructure and civilian sites. This marks a recent shift in tactics, as Russia has increasingly conducted major drone and missile strikes during the daytime, contrasting with its previous night-time operations.
The attack underscores the ongoing intensity of the conflict, with both sides adapting their strategies. Ukraine's air defence systems have been crucial in mitigating damage, but the scale of the assault poses significant challenges.
