What's happened
Russia launched over 650 drones and 38 missiles at Ukraine, targeting energy and infrastructure in 13 regions. The attack caused casualties, power outages, and damage, amid ongoing peace negotiations. Ukrainian officials condemned the assault as a clear sign of Putin's refusal to cease hostilities before Christmas.
What's behind the headline?
Russian escalation signals a strategic intent to undermine Ukraine’s stability and resilience, especially during winter when energy supplies are critical. The attack’s timing, just before Christmas, underscores Russia’s willingness to target civilians during a period of heightened emotional and social significance. The deployment of over 650 drones and 38 missiles, with most intercepted, indicates a sophisticated and persistent campaign to degrade Ukraine’s infrastructure. The international response, including Polish fighter jet deployment, highlights the broader regional security implications. This assault demonstrates that Russia remains committed to its invasion despite diplomatic efforts, and it will likely continue to escalate military pressure unless significant diplomatic breakthroughs occur. The attack also complicates ongoing peace negotiations, making a resolution more distant and uncertain.
What the papers say
Sky News reports the scale of the attack, emphasizing the widespread damage and casualties, and notes the deployment of fighter jets by Poland as a regional response. The New Arab highlights the timing of the attack, two days before Christmas, and the political message it sends about Russian priorities. The Independent and AP News detail the specific infrastructure damage, casualties, and the ongoing efforts to restore power, providing a comprehensive picture of the attack’s impact. All sources agree on the severity and strategic implications, though Sky News and The New Arab focus more on regional security, while The Independent and AP emphasize the humanitarian toll and infrastructure damage.
How we got here
Since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the conflict has involved frequent missile and drone strikes aimed at energy infrastructure and civilian areas. Recent attacks, including this large-scale assault, reflect Russia's ongoing strategy to weaken Ukraine's energy resilience and demonstrate its military resolve amid stalled peace talks. Ukrainian efforts to restore power are ongoing, with international support and heightened military readiness in response.
Go deeper
Common question
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Why Did Russia Launch Over 650 Drones and 38 Missiles at Ukraine?
Russia's recent large-scale attack on Ukraine involved over 650 drones and 38 missiles, causing significant damage and casualties. Many wonder why Russia chose such a massive strike, especially during the holiday season. This attack raises questions about Russia's military strategy, its impact on Ukraine, and what it means for ongoing peace efforts. Below, we explore the reasons behind this intense assault and what it signifies for the future of the conflict.
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