Ukraine launches drone assault over Russia; missile strike injures 17

In Ukraine, significant military activity occurred as more than 100 drones from Ukraine were reportedly shot down by Russian air defenses over various regions in Russia. This incident highlights the ongoing aerial conflict, vividly illustrating how the war continues to evolve with drone warfare becoming more prevalent. The drones targeted areas such as the Kursk border region, where the bulk of the interceptions occurred, suggesting a strategic focus on proximity to the conflict's epicenter. Simultaneously, Kryvyi Rih, a city in Ukraine, was struck by two Russian ballistic missiles, resulting in injuries to 17 civilians. This attack underscores the persistent threat facing urban areas in Ukraine, as missile strikes have become a routine tactic employed by Russian forces since the start of the full-scale invasion in February 2022. The local administration reported significant damage to homes and businesses as a result of the bombardment. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned these acts, asserting that they represent deliberate terror against the Ukrainian people. He called for sustained international military support, emphasizing that such attacks are part of a larger strategy of intimidation by Russia. Recent statistics highlight a surge in Russian aerial assaults, with reports of hundreds of guided bombs and drones unleashed on Ukraine in a single week. This escalation reflects the war's ongoing trajectory, characterized by large-scale operations on both sides, increasingly risking civilian infrastructure and lives while drawing continued international attention and concern.