- Russia launches 267 drones in largest attack since war’s onset.
- Ukraine intercepts 138 drones; 119 disrupted by electronic warfare.
- President Zelensky condemns “aerial terror,” urges global unity.
- US President Trump labels Zelensky a “dictator,” sparking diplomatic tensions.
- Concerns rise over US-Russia talks excluding Ukraine.
On the eve of the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported an unprecedented aerial assault. Russia launched 267 attack drones overnight, making it the largest drone offensive since the conflict began in February 2022. Zelensky condemned this as “aerial terror” and urged Ukraine’s allies to stand united against the aggression.
Ukraine’s air force intercepted 138 of the incoming drones. Another 119 drones disappeared from radar, likely due to electronic countermeasures. However, several regions, including Kyiv, still suffered damage. This assault is part of a larger escalation, with Russia launching nearly 1,150 attack drones, over 1,400 guided aerial bombs, and 35 missiles in the past week alone.
The situation grew more complicated when US President Donald Trump called Zelensky a “dictator without elections” and urged him to speed up peace talks with Russia. Zelensky responded by accusing Trump of repeating Russian disinformation. This exchange has worried European allies, who fear changes in US policy and the possibility of Ukraine being left out of crucial discussions.
Growing Concerns Over Ukraine’s Future
European leaders are increasingly worried about the rising tensions and their impact on international support for Ukraine. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz stressed the importance of maintaining solidarity. He warned that any weakening of this unity could encourage Russian aggression, leading to more instability in the region.
The US-Russia meeting in Riyadh added to these concerns. Notably, Ukrainian representatives were not present, raising questions about Ukraine’s influence over its own future. This exclusion has sparked fears about how decisions affecting Ukraine might be made without its involvement.
As the conflict nears its third year, military actions are intensifying, and diplomatic relations remain tense. These developments emphasize the urgent need for a united international strategy. Supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty while managing complex geopolitical challenges requires careful and balanced decision-making.