1 dead after Russia launches massive drone and missile attack on Ukraine

Russia launched a massive overnight attack on Ukraine, firing over 300 drones and more than 30 cruise missiles, killing one person and injuring several others. The attack marks a significant escalation in Moscow’s ongoing aerial campaign against Ukrainian cities.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed the strike on X, noting that the Black Sea port city of Odesa was among the hardest hit. More than 20 drones and a missile struck the city, killing one person and injuring six, including a child. A fire broke out in a residential high-rise, where five residents were rescued.

Elsewhere, damage was reported to critical infrastructure in Ukraine’s northeastern Sumy region.

Zelenskyy thanked global allies for their continued support, emphasising the need for rapid implementation of defence agreements, including joint weapons production, drone manufacturing, and air defence supplies.

Russia’s recent drone activity has grown more aggressive, with analysts warning of a continued escalation. Earlier this month, Moscow launched over 700 drones in a single night, a record number.

Russia’s Defence Ministry claimed it intercepted 71 Ukrainian drones overnight, while Moscow’s mayor said 13 were shot down near the capital.

In a separate development, Ukraine’s foreign ministry accused Russia of forcibly deporting Ukrainian citizens, including former prisoners, into Georgia and abandoning them without identification. Deputy Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said dozens are now stuck in a transit zone. Russia has yet to respond to the allegation.

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