Additional Coverage:
Drone Strikes Rock Ukraine
Ukraine’s air force intercepted 50 out of 73 Russian drones that entered its airspace overnight. The remaining 19 drones were lost in flight, and four were still active as of Sunday morning.
Russia claims to have shot down 36 Ukrainian drones during the same period. Moscow says its strikes targeted military airfields, production facilities, and enemy forces.
Increased Drone Warfare
Drone exchanges have become a regular feature of the conflict, with Russia often combining them with missile attacks. Ukraine has also used advanced weapons, including ATACMS missiles and Storm Shadow cruise missiles, against Russian targets.
Escalating Tensions
Ukraine’s use of ATACMS missiles prompted Russia to update its nuclear doctrine, potentially allowing for a nuclear response to the use of Western weapons. Russia also warned the U.S. before striking Dnipro with a new ballistic missile.
Ukraine’s Response
President Zelenskyy condemned Russia’s threats and called for more air defense systems for Ukraine. Ukrainian officials maintain their right to strike military targets in Russia.
Determined Ukraine
Despite Russian threats, Ukraine’s parliamentarian Yehor Cherniev said the country will not be deterred. He emphasized Ukraine’s right to use all available weapons to defend itself and eliminate the threat from Russia.