Ukraine has reported that Russia launched war’s largest drone since the beginning of the full-scale invasion in 2022, intensifying tensions just as diplomatic efforts to halt the conflict appeared to stall. The attack occurred in the early hours of Sunday, targeting multiple Ukrainian regions including Kyiv, Dnipropetrovsk, and Donetsk.
The Ukrainian air force stated that Russia deployed 273 drones before 08:00 local time (05:00 GMT), in what officials have called a “strategic show of force.” According to the military, 88 of those drones were intercepted, while another 128 deviated from their intended paths and caused no significant damage.
Civilian Casualties Reported in Kyiv Region
Tragically, one woman was killed and at least three others injured, including a four-year-old child, during strikes in Obukhiv district in the Kyiv region. Ukrainian emergency services responded to several impacted sites as officials condemned the attack as a deliberate escalation ahead of ongoing ceasefire negotiations.
This drone barrage surpasses the previous record of 267 drones launched by Russia on February 23, marking the third anniversary of the war. The attack has raised alarm across Europe, reinforcing concerns about Russia’s commitment to peace.
Russia and Ukraine Hold First Direct Talks in Years
Just two days earlier, representatives from Russia and Ukraine met in Istanbul for their first face-to-face talks in over three years, brokered by Turkish officials. The dialogue led to a renewed prisoner exchange deal but failed to deliver progress on any broader ceasefire agreement.
Ukrainian officials later stated they viewed Russia’s participation in the talks as a strategic move rather than a genuine effort toward peace. “For Russia, the negotiations in Istanbul are just a pretence. Putin wants war,” said Andriy Yermak, a senior adviser to President Volodymyr Zelensky.
International Leaders Push for Ceasefire Ahead of Trump-Putin Call
Global leaders continue to push for a cessation of hostilities. On Sunday, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz confirmed a scheduled virtual meeting with the UK, French, and Polish heads of state ahead of former U.S. President Donald Trump’s expected call with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The call is seen as part of broader efforts to endorse a 30-day ceasefire proposal championed by the so-called “coalition of the willing,” which includes key European powers. Trump has reportedly warned of additional sanctions if Russia refuses to comply.
Military Tensions Continue Amid Nuclear Threat Concerns
Ukraine’s intelligence agency warned that Russia may be preparing for a “training and combat” launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile as an intimidation tactic. While Moscow has yet to respond to the accusation, Ukrainian officials argue that the latest drone strikes reflect a continued desire by Russia to escalate rather than de-escalate the war.
President Zelensky reiterated his readiness to accept the proposed ceasefire, emphasizing Ukraine’s desire for an immediate and unconditional end to fighting. However, the Kremlin has tied any potential pause in hostilities to a halt in military supplies flowing to Ukraine from the West.
Putin also insists that any future negotiations include Ukraine’s neutrality, a downsizing of its military, and withdrawal from NATO ambitions—conditions Kyiv has repeatedly rejected.
