Kyiv
The Russian Defence Ministry has announced that it intercepted 112 Ukrainian drones within 24 hours, in what officials described as one of the largest single-day drone defence operations since the war began. In parallel, Russia launched strikes on military-use port infrastructure near Kyiv, intensifying pressure on Ukraine’s logistical and defence capabilities.
A surge in aerial warfare
The drone interceptions come just days after Russia carried out a major aerial assault involving nearly 600 drones and 31 missiles. That wave of attacks killed at least 21 civilians in Kyiv, including four children, and caused severe damage to European Union diplomatic buildings and offices in the city.
Escalating frontlines
Moscow has increasingly turned to drone warfare to counter Ukraine’s offensive strategies, while Kyiv continues to rely heavily on unmanned aerial vehicles to strike deep inside Russian territory. Analysts note that the scale of these operations signals a dramatic escalation, with both sides now engaged in near-daily aerial clashes.
Civilian toll
While Russia emphasises its focus on Ukrainian military infrastructure, recent strikes have resulted in significant civilian casualties and damage to residential areas. Kyiv officials accused Moscow of deliberately targeting civilian zones to spread fear and disrupt daily life.
Conclusion
The downing of over 100 drones in one day highlights how rapidly the conflict is evolving into a drone-dominated battlefield. With Russia and Ukraine locked in a cycle of aerial strikes and counter-strikes, civilians continue to bear the heaviest burden of the escalating war.