Kyiv Faces Around-the-Clock Drone Attacks as Russia Deploys Faster Jet-Propelled Drones

Kyiv is experiencing a dramatic escalation in drone attacks as Russia shifts to faster, jet-propelled drones that are more difficult to intercept than the older propeller-driven models. Over the past ten days, air attacks have occurred around the clock, disrupting daily life: commuters are stranded, children are rushed underground during school hours, festivals are cancelled, and air defense systems boom throughout the city. This marks a stark new reality for residents who had adapted to the war since the full-scale invasion in February 2022, managing to maintain a semblance of normality despite earlier drone and missile threats. However, as a fifth full winter of war looms, that resilience is being tested. Moscow's summer introduction of high-speed, jet-propelled drones has increased destructiveness and reduced interception success. The relentless attacks have also punctured Ukrainians' optimism that their own long-range drone campaign against Russia was turning the war in their favor. The situation underscores the evolving nature of aerial warfare and the mounting challenges for Kyiv's civilian population.