Russia Launches Retaliatory Drone and Missile Strike on Ukraine

In a significant escalation, Russia launched a large-scale assault on Ukraine, deploying over 400 drones and 44 ballistic and cruise missiles. The attack, reportedly in retaliation for Ukraine's recent drone strikes on Russian bombers, targeted multiple regions, including Kyiv, causing widespread destruction. At least four people were killed, and 50 civilians were injured, with emergency services overwhelmed by the scale of the strikes. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the attack, calling it a blatant violation of civilian safety and urging Western leaders to hold Russia accountable.
The strikes hit residential areas and critical infrastructure, leaving many without power and shelter. A 14-year-old girl in Kyiv described the chaos, recounting how she and her family narrowly escaped death when a drone exploded nearby. Ukraine's human rights chief accused Russia of acting like a terrorist state, systematically targeting civilian targets. Moscow, however, claimed the strikes were aimed at military assets, including drone factories and arms depots.
As rescue operations continue, the international community faces growing pressure to respond decisively to Russia's aggression and support Ukraine in defending its sovereignty.

Published: 6/6/2025