What's happened
Between November 19-25, 2025, Russia launched massive drone and missile attacks on Ukraine, targeting energy and transport infrastructure across multiple regions including Kyiv and Ternopil. The assaults caused widespread power outages amid freezing temperatures, destroyed residential buildings killing at least 31 civilians including children, and left dozens missing. Ukraine responded with long-range strikes on Russian energy facilities.
What's behind the headline?
Strategic Escalation and Human Cost
Russia's recent drone and missile barrage represents a deliberate intensification aimed at undermining Ukraine's civilian infrastructure and morale, particularly targeting energy systems to exacerbate hardships during winter. The scale—476 drones and 48 missiles in a single assault—demonstrates Moscow's commitment to sustained pressure despite heavy losses on the battlefield.
Ukraine's Resilience and Response
Despite severe damage and civilian casualties, Ukrainian forces maintain defensive resilience, with frontline troops noting Russia's limited territorial gains at high human cost. Kyiv's counterstrikes on Russian oil refineries and ports signal a strategic shift to degrade Russia's war economy, aiming to reduce Moscow's capacity for prolonged conflict.
Diplomatic Undercurrents
The timing of attacks coincides with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy's diplomatic efforts in Turkiye to revive peace talks, underscoring Russia's intent to leverage military pressure in negotiations. Meanwhile, former Russian diplomats and analysts interpret Western hesitancy and proposals like Trump's peace plan as signs of geopolitical realignment favoring Moscow's interests.
Forecast and Implications
The winter months will likely see continued Russian attempts to disrupt Ukraine's energy supply, increasing civilian suffering and complicating defense efforts. Ukraine's ability to sustain counterattacks and secure international military aid will be critical. The conflict remains entrenched, with no immediate ceasefire prospects, and the humanitarian toll will deepen unless diplomatic breakthroughs occur.
What the papers say
Al Jazeera's Mansur Mirovalev highlights the brutal frontline conditions near Zaporizhzhia and the psychological impact of Trump's peace plan on Ukrainian morale, quoting a drone operator who underscores the heavy Russian losses and limited territorial gains. Al Jazeera Staff and The Japan Times detail the massive November 19-20 drone and missile attacks, emphasizing the destruction in Ternopil and Kyiv, with dozens killed and missing, including children. The New York Times' Constant Méheut provides a detailed account of the Kyiv assault, noting the strategic targeting of energy infrastructure and Ukraine's retaliatory strikes on Russian oil facilities. The Independent and NY Post focus on the human toll and damage in Kyiv, with Zelenskyy calling for increased Western support. France 24 and Politico contextualize the attacks within broader geopolitical dynamics, including Western sanctions and Russia's ongoing offensive in eastern Ukraine. These sources collectively illustrate the multifaceted nature of the conflict—military, humanitarian, and diplomatic—while revealing contrasting perspectives on the effectiveness and implications of recent strikes.
How we got here
The conflict began with Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in early 2022. Since then, both sides have targeted each other's military and energy infrastructure. Russia's recent strategy focuses on crippling Ukraine's power grid ahead of winter, while Ukraine has escalated long-range strikes on Russian energy assets to disrupt Moscow's war funding.
Go deeper
- What are the latest developments in the Ukraine-Russia war?
- How is Ukraine responding to Russia's drone and missile attacks?
- What impact do these attacks have on civilians and infrastructure?
Common question
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Why Are Russian Attacks on Kyiv Increasing?
Recent weeks have seen a surge in Russian missile and drone strikes targeting Kyiv, raising concerns about escalation and the impact on Ukraine’s resilience. Many wonder why these attacks are intensifying and what they mean for the ongoing conflict. Below, we explore the reasons behind the increased attacks, Ukraine’s response, and what the future might hold as winter approaches.
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Current Ukraine-Russia Conflict: What’s Happening Now?
The Ukraine-Russia conflict continues to evolve rapidly, with recent strikes on energy infrastructure and escalating military exchanges. Many are wondering why Ukraine is targeting Russian energy assets now, how both sides are responding, and what this means for the winter ahead. Here’s a clear overview of the latest developments and answers to your most pressing questions about the ongoing conflict.
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Why Are Russian Drones Targeting Ukraine More Now?
Recent weeks have seen a surge in Russian drone attacks on Ukraine, raising questions about the reasons behind this escalation. Understanding the motives, Ukraine's response, and the broader implications can help clarify the ongoing conflict. Below, we explore the key questions surrounding these intensified aerial assaults and what they mean for regional stability and international efforts.
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Why Are Russian Attacks on Ukraine Escalating Now?
Recent weeks have seen a sharp increase in Russian missile and drone strikes targeting Ukraine, raising questions about why the escalation is happening now. This surge in hostilities comes amid ongoing regional tensions, diplomatic negotiations, and Ukraine's defensive responses. Understanding the reasons behind this escalation can help clarify what might happen next in this complex conflict. Below, we explore the key factors driving the recent increase in attacks and what it means for Ukraine and the wider region.
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What’s Happening with Russia’s Attacks on Ukraine and Regional Tensions?
Recent escalations in Ukraine, rising tensions between Japan and China, and regional conflicts are capturing global attention. People are asking what’s really going on, how these conflicts are evolving, and what they mean for regional stability. Below, we answer some of the most common questions about these pressing issues to keep you informed and prepared.
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Why is Russia escalating drone and missile strikes on Ukraine?
Russia's recent surge in drone and missile attacks on Ukraine has raised many questions. Why is Russia increasing these strikes now? What are their strategic goals? And how is Ukraine responding? Below, we explore the reasons behind this escalation and what it means for the ongoing conflict.
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Kyiv, also Kiev, is the capital and most populous city of Ukraine. Located in the north-central part of the country, it straddles both sides of the Dnieper River. As of 1 January 2022, its population was 2,952,301, making Kyiv the seventh-most populous...
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