Russia Launches Largest Aerial Attack on Ukraine: 477 Drones, 60 Missiles Used; F-16 Downed with Pilot Casualty

Russia launched 477 drones and 60 missiles on Ukraine overnight in the biggest aerial attack since the start of the war amid soaring tensions between the two nations. Ukrainian officials called it the 'most massive air strike'.

The attack coincided with Russian President Vladimir Putin's statement that Moscow is prepared for fresh peace talks in Istanbul. A Ukrainian F-16 warplane was downed in the attack, resulting in the pilot's death.

The assault is part of Russia's escalating bombing campaign, according to a Ukrainian official. The attack targeted regions across Ukraine, including western areas far from the frontline.

Poland and allied countries took measures to secure Polish airspace in response to the attack. Out of the 537 weapons fired by Russia, 249 were shot down and 226 were lost, likely due to electronic jamming, as reported by the Ukraine Air Force.

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy shared a clip of the assault, stating that the Russians targeted essential infrastructure. The attack involved Russian-Iranian Shahed drones and 60 missiles of various types.

The lethal assault followed Russia amassing troops near Pokrovsk, a strategic target. Despite Putin's claims of openness to peace talks, the escalation continues, with no breakthrough in international peace efforts.

Zelenskyy emphasized that Moscow shows no signs of stopping its massive strikes, with over 114 missiles, 1,270 drones, and nearly 1,100 glide bombs launched this week alone.

According to the source: Mint.