By Emeka Blast 
Russia Unleashes Massive Missile and Drone Barrage on Ukraine
Russia launched a significant missile and drone assault on Ukraine overnight, marking one of the most intense attacks since the invasion began. The offensive targeted multiple cities, including Kyiv and Kharkiv, resulting in at least six deaths and over 40 injuries. The Ukrainian Air Force reported that 215 aerial targets were launched, with 87 drones and seven missiles intercepted.
In Kharkiv, the second-largest city, the barrage involved 48 kamikaze drones, missiles, and guided bombs, damaging over 30 buildings, including homes and high-rises. Mayor Ihor Terekhov described it as the most powerful attack since the war’s onset.
The strikes are believed to be retaliation for Ukraine’s Operation Spiderweb, a strategic drone raid that damaged or destroyed at least 40 Russian warplanes at four airbases.
In Kyiv, explosions lasted for hours, with several fires reported from the attacks. The assault targeted apartment buildings, administrative buildings, commercial warehouses, and cafes.
The recent escalation follows Ukraine’s surprise drone strike on Russian airfields and further diminishes hopes for a peace deal. Despite Ukraine’s offer of a 30-day ceasefire and direct talks between Presidents Zelenskyy and Putin, the Kremlin has not relented.
