Russia says it intercepted nearly 400 Ukrainian drones overnight in what it described as the largest aerial assault on its territory since the war began more than four years ago.
According to Russia’s Defense Ministry, a total of 389 drones were shot down across 13 regions as well as the annexed Crimean Peninsula, highlighting the growing reach of Ukraine’s long-range drone capabilities.
The attack followed a massive Russian bombardment a day earlier, in which nearly 1,000 drones and dozens of missiles were launched at Ukrainian targets over a 24-hour period. Ukrainian officials said at least six people were killed and around 50 injured in that assault.
The escalation underscores an intensifying air war between Moscow and Kyiv, with both sides expanding their use of drones and missile strikes.
Regional authorities in Russia reported damage from the Ukrainian strikes, including a fire at a Baltic Sea port in the Leningrad region and disruptions to energy infrastructure in Belgorod, which affected power, water, and heating supplies.
The wave of drone activity also drew attention in nearby Baltic states. Officials in Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania reported incidents involving stray drones, though no significant damage or casualties were recorded.
Meanwhile, international concern is mounting. UNESCO said it was “deeply alarmed” after a Russian strike hit a World Heritage site in the Ukrainian city of Lviv during the latest bombardment.
The surge in attacks comes as U.S.-mediated peace talks between Russia and Ukraine remain stalled, with diplomatic efforts overshadowed by other global conflicts. Ukraine is also bracing for a potential large-scale spring offensive by Russian forces.
As aerial assaults intensify on both sides, the conflict continues to expand in scale and complexity, with increasing risks for regional stability beyond the immediate war zone.
