LONDON — Ukraine launched an attack on a Russian air base over the weekend, escalating tensions as Russia retaliated with extensive drone strikes across Ukraine. This latest offensive marks a significant moment in the ongoing conflict that has persisted for more than three years, dashing hopes for a diplomatic resolution.
Ukrainian military officials reported that they targeted the Borisoglebsk air base in Russia’s Voronezh region, which serves as a base for advanced Russian fighter jets. The Ukrainian General Staff claimed the strike successfully hit an important depot containing glide bombs and other military equipment. Meanwhile, Russian officials have yet to issue a statement regarding the air base strike.
Russian aerial attacks have intensified in recent weeks, with Ukraine’s air force confirming that 322 drones and decoys were launched at various locations within Ukraine overnight. They reported that Ukrainian defenses shot down 157 of these drones, while many others were likely lost due to electronic jamming. Notably, the Khmelnytskyi region was identified as a primary target during this wave of assaults, according to local officials, who reported no significant damage or injuries.
In a separate incident, Kyiv experienced a severe drone attack that resulted in casualties. The city’s mayor announced that the death toll had risen to two, with 31 others injured during the large-scale aerial assault, which was reported to be the most extensive since the invasion began. The attack on Kyiv, alongside ongoing threats throughout Ukraine, underscores a worrying trend in Russian military strategy.
The escalation comes shortly after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy described a constructive conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump. The two leaders discussed increasing support for Ukraine’s air defense systems and the potential for joint weapons production. Trump noted the call was positive but remained noncommittal about immediate steps to resolve the ongoing conflict.
Despite assurances of support, the U.S. has recently paused some military aid, including vital air defense missiles, prompting European allies to explore alternative means of assistance. Zelenskyy mentioned that plans are underway to bolster Ukraine’s domestic arms industry, though any increase in production capabilities will require time and resources.
In retaliation, Russia’s Defense Ministry claimed to have intercepted numerous Ukrainian drones, stating that they shot down 94 overnight and another 45 in the early hours of Saturday. While no casualties were reported from these interceptions, damage was noted in the Saratov region, where 25 apartments were affected by a drone’s flight path. In Moscow, air traffic at Sheremetyevo Airport was briefly halted due to four Ukrainian drones approaching the city.
As both Ukraine and Russia ramp up their military operations, the prospect of ending the conflict appears increasingly distant. The situation remains fluid, with both sides preparing for continued hostilities as diplomatic negotiations stall and international support wavers.