Russia launches 500 drones at Ukraine in biggest overnight bombardment of the war

By | June 10, 2025
Russia drone attack on Ukraine causes fires in Kyiv residential areas

Kyiv, June 10, 2025 — Russia launched a record-breaking 500 drones in a massive overnight attack on Ukraine, striking multiple cities and causing serious damage. Ukrainian officials called it the largest drone assault since the start of the war.

Ukraine Hit by Record Drone Attack

The Ukrainian Air Force reported that the attack used hundreds of Shahed-type drones. Kyiv, Kharkiv, Odesa, and Dnipro were the main targets. Explosions echoed even in Lviv, far from the front lines.

Colonel Yuriy Ihnat confirmed that air defense systems shot down about 80% of the drones. Still, many reached their targets. “This wasn’t just an attack. It was psychological warfare,” Ihnat said. “They want to exhaust our defenses.”

Damage to Cities and Civilians

The drones struck civilian buildings, warehouses, and infrastructure. Fires broke out in several cities. Officials reported three deaths and at least 27 injuries.

In Kyiv, the mayor said explosions damaged power stations, causing blackouts. In Odesa, drone strikes hit oil storage tanks and transport hubs, creating massive fires. Emergency crews worked through the night to control the damage.

The Ministry of Energy said key parts of the power grid were affected. Repairs are underway, but some areas may face outages in the coming days.

Zelenskyy: “They Will Not Break Us”

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called the drone barrage an act of terror. He urged global allies to send more air defense support.

“Firing 500 drones in one night is not warfare. It’s a targeted attempt to spread fear and chaos. They want to break our will. They will not succeed,” he declared.

Zelenskyy renewed his plea for more advanced defense systems. He asked for Patriot missiles and better drone interception tools from NATO allies.

Why Now? Possible Signal Before NATO Summit

Military analysts believe the attack was timed to influence the upcoming NATO summit in Brussels. Ukraine’s potential membership and future support will be central topics.

Dr. Elena Morozova, a European defense expert, said the attack sends a message. “Russia wants to remind the West that it can still escalate. This was about power and control.”

World Reacts with Condemnation

Leaders from the U.S., U.K., and EU quickly condemned the strike. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken called it “reckless aggression.” The EU’s Josep Borrell described it as “an urgent call for stronger air defenses.”

Germany promised to speed up delivery of IRIS-T systems. France is considering sending additional missile launchers.

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said drone warfare will be a key focus of the summit. “Russia’s shift to drone swarms must be answered with better defense and unity,” he said.

Humanitarian Concerns on the Rise

The drone attack has worsened Ukraine’s growing humanitarian crisis. Aid groups say power cuts, water issues, and trauma are rising.

The International Red Cross reported an increase in emergency needs. Many civilians are now seeking shelter in Kharkiv and Odesa.

Dr. Hanna Kovalchuk, a volunteer therapist, said more children are showing signs of trauma. “They live in fear, and this level of attack makes it worse,” she said.

What’s Next for Ukraine?

As Ukraine begins repairs, officials fear this may become a regular tactic. The country’s air defenses are under strain. Supplies are limited, and attacks are becoming harder to stop.

Still, Ukrainian citizens remain determined. “We stayed awake all night,” said Olena, a mother from Kyiv. “We’re tired, but we’re not giving up.”