Why it matters:
The scale and coordination of the assault signal a dramatic escalation in Russia’s tactics, raising fresh concerns about civilian safety and the resilience of Ukraine’s air defenses as the war grinds into its third year.
The big picture:
This latest barrage comes as Ukraine braces for increased Russian offensives amid a slow-moving counteroffensive and dwindling Western military aid. The Kharkiv region, located near the Russian border, has long been a frontline target, but the scale of this assault marks a new threshold in the war's intensity.
What he's saying:
“This was the most powerful offensive since the onset of the full war,” Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov said, describing simultaneous strikes on residential buildings, schools, and critical infrastructure.
Serhiy Lysak, Dnipropetrovsk’s regional military chief, added: “Overnight, the region endured a combined Russian attack. Our air defense units shot down six enemy missiles and 27 drones. Thank you to our defenders of the skies!”
Key points:
- At least three dead and up to 22 injured in Kharkiv. Two women were injured in Dnipro, including an 88-year-old. A couple was killed in Kherson.
- Weapons used: Missiles, guided bombs, FPV drones, and explosive drones,215 in total, 174 intercepted or neutralized.
Damage reported:
Kharkiv: High-rises, schools, and civilian infrastructure hit.
Dnipro & Pavlohrad: Businesses, homes, cars destroyed.
Nikopol: Nine-story building was damaged in daylight artillery and drone strikes.
Go deeper:
Footage from Kharkiv reveals smoldering wreckage, mangled vehicles, and emergency crews combing through debris for survivors.
One civilian industrial site was bombarded by over 40 drones, a missile, and four bombs, triggering massive fires.
Hossein Vaez
