500 Drones Strike Overnight Amid Rising Tensions and Global Backlash
Russia dramatically escalated the ongoing war in Eastern Europe by launching what officials describe as the largest drone attack of the conflict against Ukraine overnight. On Monday, Ukrainian officials confirmed that Russia had deployed 500 drones across multiple regions, alarming civilians and further complicating global diplomatic efforts to restore peace.
The aerial onslaught is part of a three-day bombardment streak that has seen Russia increase its offensive on both civilian and military infrastructure in Ukraine. This latest strike shatters all previous records in drone usage and underscores President Vladimir Putin’s determination to claim more territory despite mounting international pressure.
🔥 Cities Under Siege, Sky Filled with Drones
According to Yuriy Ihnat, spokesperson for Ukraine’s Air Force, Sunday night’s attack involved 355 drones, surpassing the previous night’s record of 298 drones and 69 missiles.Ukrainian officials estimate that Russia has launched nearly 900 drones in just three days.
On the ground, the impact has been devastating. Drones struck various locations, forcing citizens to flee to underground shelters. While Ukrainian air defense intercepted many incoming threats, several drones breached defenses, resulting in property damage and injuries.
🗣️ Zelenskyy, Trump React with Fury
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the attacks on social media, calling them “politically motivated” and warning that such moves indicate a dangerous level of impunity by the Kremlin.
Across the Atlantic, U.S. President Donald Trump reacted strongly, describing Putin as “absolutely CRAZY” in a fiery social media post. “Missiles and drones are being shot into cities in Ukraine, for no reason whatsoever,” Trump stated, suggesting that Putin has “gone too far.”
🌍 Global Fallout and Diplomacy in Peril
This latest escalation appears to have dashed hopes for a ceasefire. Just months ago, Ukraine had agreed to a 30-day unconditional truce proposed by the U.S., which Russia never formally accepted. With this recent aggression, analysts fear the prospect of peace has grown even more remote.
Meanwhile, European leaders are demanding a stronger response. French President Emmanuel Macron accused Putin of “lying to the world” and urged coordinated retaliation, including stricter sanctions. Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated there are now “no range restrictions” on weapons supplied to Ukraine, allowing Kyiv to strike targets within Russia.
💣 Escalation Ahead?
The battlefield extends beyond airspace. Russia continues to push along the 1,000-kilometer front line, preparing for a major summer offensive. Simultaneously, drone attacks have spread to Russian cities as well, with Moscow diverting dozens of flights due to Ukrainian drone activity.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov defended the recent actions, claiming they are necessary for Russia’s national security and in response to Ukrainian strikes. He called the situation “emotionally charged” and “decisive.”
🔁 Prisoner Swap Offers a Rare Moment of Relief
Amid the escalating violence, a major prisoner exchange offered a brief glimmer of hope. Over 1,000 prisoners, including soldiers and civilians, were exchanged between Russia and Ukraine in the largest swap of the war so far.
As global leaders prepare for emergency consultations, the future of Eastern Europe remains in turmoil, with drone warfare now defining the modern battlefield.
