Russia launches 1,560 drones and missiles in massive two-day attack on Ukraine

On Thursday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Russia launched its largest air assault on Ukraine since the war began, with over 1,560 drones and missiles fired starting Wednesday. During the night, more than 670 drones and 56 missiles were deployed, but air defense systems successfully intercepted 41 missiles and 652 drones. The capital city, Kyiv, and other urban centers were hit hardest. Zelensky pointed out that these actions indicate a lack of belief in an impending end to the conflict, urging allies to strengthen Ukraine's air defenses. This surge in attacks comes after Russian President Vladimir Putin hinted that the war might be winding down. Russia's full-scale invasion began in February 2022, and this year has seen little advancement on the battlefield. Meanwhile, Ukraine struck Russian energy and manufacturing sites, with three regions experiencing attacks on Wednesday. Russia claimed it intercepted 286 Ukrainian drones across areas including Crimea and the Black Sea.