Russia unleashed a barrage of over 650 drones and fifty missiles into Ukraine, causing extensive destruction and widespread power outages. The attacks resulted in at least two fatalities in Zaporizhzhia and left 17 individuals severely injured, including six children. Amid mounting pressure from the US to cease hostilities, Western communities near the Polish border were targeted, prompting Polish warplanes to be on high alert to intercept potential stray missiles.
The onslaught included various advanced weaponry such as Kinzhal air-launched missiles, ballistic explosives, Kh-101 cruise missiles, and lethal “kamikaze” Shahed drones. Alerts sounded across Ukraine as air defense systems were activated in nearly all regions, leading to casualties, destroyed infrastructure, and fires. While the capital Kyiv was a focal point for drone strikes aimed at disrupting civilian services, no casualties were reported.
Zaporizhzhia endured relentless attacks with numerous drones and missiles targeting the region, resulting in significant damage including the destruction of an entire apartment building. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that despite successful interceptions, some hits were unavoidable. In Dnipro, ballistic missiles struck overnight, with 22 drones intercepted over the Dnipropetrovsk area. The assaults extended far beyond the conflict zone, with Ivano-Frankivsk experiencing explosions from cruise missile strikes that caused power outages.
Witnesses reported continuous blasts over a three-hour period in Ivano-Frankivsk, with the Burshtyn Thermal Power Plant being a strategic target due to its role in connecting Ukraine’s power grid with neighboring countries. The conflict also impacted regions like Mykolaiv and Lviv, where energy infrastructure facilities were attacked, leading to widespread power disruptions. Ladyzhyn in the Vinnytsia region was left without essential services following overnight strikes, prompting authorities to implement alternative heating and water supply measures.
In response to the Russian offensive, Poland’s air force scrambled fighter jets and surveillance aircraft, placing air defense systems on high alert. The Polish Operational Command confirmed the launch of operations in airspace due to the attack on Ukraine, emphasizing readiness for immediate response. The situation remains tense as neighboring countries brace for further escalations in the conflict.