Kyiv, Aug 28:
Russia launched what Ukrainian officials described as a massive overnight missile and drone assault on nine Ukrainian cities, with explosions continuing into Thursday morning and air defence systems activated across several regions.
The attack struck major urban centres, including the capital Kyiv, as Russia intensified its aerial campaign against Ukraine. Authorities reported explosions in and around the capital while emergency services assessed the scale of the damage and possible casualties.
The latest barrage has again exposed Ukraineās shortage of advanced air defence systems, particularly US-made Patriot missiles used to intercept ballistic missiles. Russiaās increasing use of fast, jet-powered drones has added another challenge to Ukraineās already stretched air defence network.
The overnight offensive came as the war continued without any immediate breakthrough in efforts to end the conflict. Ukraine has repeatedly appealed to its Western partners for additional air defence systems and ammunition to protect major cities and critical infrastructure.
The scale of the latest attack underlined Russiaās continued ability to launch large, coordinated aerial strikes despite more than four years of full-scale war.