‘477 Drones, 60 Missiles’: Ukraine Describes Russia’s Massive Aerial Onslaught as One of the Biggest Yet

Russia launched a massive overnight assault on Ukraine, firing 477 drones and 60 missiles across multiple regions in one of the largest air raids in recent weeks, according to Ukrainian military officials.

The intense barrage killed a Ukrainian F-16 fighter pilot, damaged key infrastructure, and left injuries and destruction in at least six regions. Ukraine’s Air Force confirmed that 211 drones and 38 missiles were intercepted during the attack.

“All available air defence assets were deployed to counter the strike,” the military said.

Widespread Destruction, Multiple Regions Hit

Strikes were reported in Lviv, Poltava, Mykolaiv, Dnipropetrovsk, Cherkasy, and Ivano-Frankivsk.

• In Cherkasy, six people including a child were injured when missiles struck residential buildings and a college.

• Ivano-Frankivsk saw one civilian injured.

• Industrial facilities were targeted in Mykolaiv and Dnipropetrovsk.

• Officials in Lviv reported hits on critical infrastructure, though specifics were not disclosed.

Images released by authorities showed buildings with blown-out windows and emergency teams evacuating residents through rubble and debris.

Fallen F-16 Pilot Hailed as Hero

Ukraine confirmed the loss of its third F-16 jet during the operation. The Air Force said the pilot successfully shot down seven aerial targets before his jet was struck.

“While shooting down the last target, his aircraft was damaged and began to descend. He tried to steer it away from a populated area but couldn’t eject in time,” the statement read.

Zelensky Demands Stronger Air Defences

President Volodymyr Zelensky responded by renewing his call for increased Western military support, especially advanced air defence systems.

“This war must be brought to an end – and for that, pressure on the aggressor and protection of our skies are essential,” Zelensky said on X (formerly Twitter).

He revealed staggering figures from recent days alone:

• 114+ missiles

• 1,270+ drones

• 1,100+ glide bombs

Ukrainian intelligence estimates that around 225 drones used in the recent attack were either decoys or disabled via electronic warfare.

Zelensky also urged the U.S. and its allies — including former President Donald Trump — to back the sale of more Patriot missile systems, calling it a matter of “political will” and “leadership.”

While the number of operational F-16s remains undisclosed, the jets are emerging as a core part of Ukraine’s evolving air defence strategy amid continued Russian aerial offensives.