Russia intensifies drone strikes and Ukraine responds with U.S. ATACMS missiles
Russia launched its largest drone attack on Ukraine, deploying 188 drones across 17 regions in a single night. The assault caused severe damage to residential areas and critical infrastructure, including the power grid, leaving parts of Ukraine grappling with its aftermath.
President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the act as a blatant rejection of peace, emphasizing ongoing rescue efforts in regions like Ternopil and Sumy, where casualties included fatalities and significant destruction.
Ukraine responded by using U.S.-supplied long-range ATACMS missiles to target key Russian military assets. Strikes in Kursk reportedly damaged air defense systems, injured Russian personnel, and marked Ukraine’s deepening offensive capability. While the Kremlin acknowledged the attacks, it vowed retaliation, with Russian officials warning Europe
Moscow accused Western nations of fueling the conflict, claiming the use of advanced weaponry exacerbates risks for European citizens. Russia’s State Duma President Viacheslav Volodin highlighted the “inevitability” of deploying advanced ballistic missiles like the Oreshnik to safeguard Russian interests.
“We must stop creating tensions and sliding into the abyss, which is happening due to the actions and decisions of Biden, Macron, Scholz and the like. The Zelensky regime is doomed. But everything we are seeing happening now can Damage to citizens of European countries,” Volodin said, adding that the use of the new Oreshnik ballistic missile was necessary and timely to protect Russian citizens.
As both sides escalate their military campaigns, the international community faces heightened concerns over potential spillover effects in Europe, complicating diplomatic efforts to ease hostilities.
