Russia launches largest air assault on Ukraine

English , International - بین الاقوامی , Snippets , / Sunday, May 25th, 2025

Download this post as PDF

rki.news
Russia has launched its most extensive air assault on Ukraine since the war began, deploying a record 367 drones and missiles in a single night. The massive overnight strike left at least 12 people dead, including three children, and injured more than 60 others across 13 regions, according to Ukrainian officials.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the attack, calling it a “ruthless strike aimed at civilians,” and warned that such brutality would continue without strong international pressure on Russia. He criticized what he described as “the silence of America” and others, stating it only emboldens Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Ukraine’s Air Force said it intercepted 45 cruise missiles and destroyed 266 UAVs, but widespread damage still occurred. Hits were recorded in 22 locations, with fires, injuries, and structural destruction reported in cities including Kyiv, Zhytomyr, and Kharkiv. In Kyiv, four people were killed, and several buildings, including a dormitory, were damaged.
Russia claimed its strikes targeted military airfields, ammunition depots, and electronic warfare stations, causing damage in 142 areas. Ukraine, however, reported significant civilian casualties and widespread disruption.
Sunday also marked the final day of a major prisoner exchange between the two countries, with 1,000 detainees swapped over three days. The exchange followed rare face-to-face talks in Turkey and a phone call between Presidents Trump and Putin. Trump claimed progress toward a ceasefire, though Putin has only agreed to discuss a possible future peace memorandum.
As air raids continue and diplomatic efforts remain uncertain, hopes for a ceasefire appear slim. Despite weekend diplomacy, the war shows no sign of slowing.