Two Killed, Dozens Injured in Large-Scale Russian Drone Attacks Across Ukraine

At least two people were killed and dozens more wounded as Russia launched a large wave of drone attacks across Ukraine, Ukrainian officials said, marking another escalation in aerial assaults targeting multiple regions.

Ukraine’s air force reported that Russian forces deployed dozens of attack drones overnight, striking cities and infrastructure across central, southern, and eastern parts of the country. Air defense systems were activated in several regions, with authorities saying many drones were intercepted, though debris and direct hits caused casualties and damage.

Local officials confirmed that the fatalities occurred in separate regions after drones struck residential areas. Dozens of civilians were injured, some seriously, and emergency services rushed to affected neighborhoods to extinguish fires, evacuate residents, and provide medical aid. Several apartment buildings and private homes were damaged, while power and water supplies were temporarily disrupted in parts of the country.

In Kyiv, air raid sirens sounded for hours as air defenses engaged incoming drones. While most were intercepted over the capital, falling debris damaged buildings and vehicles. Similar attacks were reported in other major cities and regional centers, underscoring the nationwide scope of the assault.

Ukrainian authorities said the attacks once again targeted civilian infrastructure and accused Moscow of deliberately aiming to terrorize the population during winter conditions. Russia has not publicly commented on the specific strikes, but it has repeatedly said its operations target military and energy-related facilities.

The latest drone barrage comes as fighting continues along the front lines and as Ukraine appeals to Western allies for additional air defense systems to counter growing drone and missile threats. Officials said search and rescue operations were ongoing and that casualty figures could rise as assessments continue.

Sources: Reuters, BBC News, Al Jazeera, Associated Press (AP)