Massive Russian Offensive Targets Ukraine with Drones and Missiles
In a significant escalation, Russian forces launched an extensive attack against Ukraine, deploying over 400 drones and 40 missiles overnight. Ukrainian authorities confirmed that at least four people were killed and dozens injured in the strikes, with the capital Kyiv bearing the brunt of the assault.
Casualties and Damage in Kyiv and Beyond
The fatalities were reported exclusively in Kyiv, where 20 individuals sustained injuries, including three emergency service workers, as verified by the State Service for Emergencies. Nationwide, approximately 40 people were injured, predominantly in Kyiv, Lutsk in the northwest, and Ternopil in the west.
The attack caused widespread damage with 38 facilities affected, including:
- Five apartment buildings
- Five private houses
Residents endured the chilling sounds of air raid sirens, drone buzz, and explosions through the night. Ukrainian air defenses actively intercepted many of the incoming projectiles, creating thunderous blasts above the city.
Presidential Statement and Nationwide Impact
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described the attack as among the largest launched against Ukraine since the conflict began. He reported that the strikes injured 49 people and affected almost all regions, spanning from Lviv in the west to Sumy in the northeast, highlighting the widespread nature of the offensive.
Background and Retaliatory Context
The timing of the attack corresponds with heightened tensions after Ukraine's recent bold strike on Russia’s strategic assets. The Ukrainian operation severely damaged over a third of Russia’s cruise missile bombers, prompting anticipation of significant Russian reprisals.
Russian President Vladimir Putin communicated his intent to respond, publicly acknowledging the necessity for retaliation during a call with a former US president earlier in the week.
Ukrainian Counterstrikes and Ongoing Tensions
Ukraine’s military reported successful strikes against two Russian airfields housing aircraft spared from previous attacks. Additionally, Ukrainian forces targeted a Russian missile unit in the Bryansk region, destroying Iskander missile launchers stationed there. This operation disrupted plans of Russia’s 26th missile brigade, which had been preparing attacks likely aimed at Kyiv.
Details of the Russian Offensive and Air Defense Response
Ukraine’s air force detailed the scale of the Russian missile and drone assault as follows:
- 407 drones
- 6 ballistic missiles
- Over 38 cruise missiles
- 1 anti-radar missile
Out of 452 total projectiles launched, Ukrainian defenses successfully intercepted 406, including 32 cruise missiles and four ballistic missiles. The remaining ballistic missiles reportedly missed their intended targets.
Incidents Involving Crimean Infrastructure
Earlier, Ukrainian forces conducted attacks on critical infrastructure linking Russia to the annexed Crimean Peninsula. On June 4, an attempted Ukrainian strike targeted the Crimean Bridge, which Kremlin authorities reported caused no damage and left the structure operational.
Previously, Ukrainian forces attacked the Kerch Bridge using underwater explosives, striking a critical connection between mainland Russia and Crimea.
