What's happened
On July 9, 2025, Russia launched a record 728 drones and 13 missiles against Ukraine, targeting airfields and western regions including Lutsk near Poland. Ukraine intercepted most drones but some hypersonic missiles caused damage. The attack followed US President Trump's pledge to send more weapons to Kyiv and calls for tougher sanctions on Russia. Kyiv and Western allies continue to bolster Ukraine's air defenses amid escalating strikes.
What's behind the headline?
Escalation of Aerial Warfare
Russia's deployment of 728 drones and multiple missiles marks a significant intensification of its air campaign, aiming to overwhelm Ukraine's air defenses and disrupt critical logistics hubs in the west, such as Lutsk. This escalation coincides with renewed US support, signaling a tit-for-tat dynamic where military aid and offensive operations feed into each other.
Strategic Targeting of Western Ukraine
Targeting western regions near NATO borders, including Lutsk close to Poland, indicates Russia's intent to threaten Ukraine's supply lines and test NATO's airspace security measures. This raises the stakes for NATO countries, which have responded by activating air defenses to protect their airspace.
Political Messaging and Sanctions
The timing of the attack, shortly after President Trump's public criticism of Putin and promise of increased sanctions, suggests a message from Moscow rejecting diplomatic overtures. Zelenskyy's calls for "biting sanctions" and Western leaders' commitments to supply air defense systems underscore the war's deepening geopolitical entanglements.
Implications for the Conflict's Trajectory
The scale and sophistication of drone and missile attacks will likely continue to strain Ukraine's defenses and civilian infrastructure. However, Ukraine's increasing effectiveness in intercepting drones, including domestic production of counter-drone technology, offers some resilience. The conflict remains locked in a cycle of escalation, with diplomatic solutions elusive and military support from the West pivotal to Ukraine's defense.
Impact on Civilians and Regional Stability
Civilian casualties and infrastructure damage, including in cities like Kyiv and Lutsk, highlight the war's human cost and the risks of spillover near NATO borders. The activation of allied air defenses reflects growing regional security concerns, potentially complicating the conflict's broader geopolitical landscape.
What the papers say
SBS and the New York Post provide detailed accounts of the record-breaking drone attack, with SBS emphasizing the scale—728 drones—and the targeting of western Ukraine, including Lutsk near Poland. SBS quotes Ukrainian Air Force spokesperson Yurii Ihnat on the interception of most drones but acknowledges damage from hypersonic missiles. The New York Post highlights President Trump's sharp criticism of Putin and his threat of 500% tariffs on Russian energy exports, framing the attack as a response to increased Western pressure.
The South China Morning Post adds context on the strategic importance of Lutsk as a logistics hub and notes Ukraine's growing domestic drone defense capabilities, quoting President Zelensky on the effectiveness of interceptor drones. The Moscow Times echoes Ukraine's perspective, noting the timing of the attack just after the US reversed a decision to reduce arms shipments, with Zelensky's chief of staff calling the attack "telling."
Earlier reports from Al Jazeera and SBS from July 4 and 5 provide background on the escalation pattern, including previous record drone attacks and Ukraine's strikes on Russian airbases. These sources also document the diplomatic stalemate, with Trump expressing frustration over Putin's unwillingness to negotiate a ceasefire, and Zelensky calling for increased Western support.
Together, these sources illustrate a complex interplay of military escalation, diplomatic efforts, and geopolitical signaling, with each side leveraging attacks and rhetoric to influence the conflict's trajectory.
How we got here
Since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, both sides have escalated drone and missile attacks. Russia has increasingly targeted western Ukraine's logistics hubs, while Ukraine has struck deep into Russian territory. US military aid to Ukraine has fluctuated, with recent pauses and renewals amid diplomatic efforts and stalled peace talks.
Go deeper
- How effective are Ukraine's air defenses against Russian drones?
- What sanctions is the US considering against Russia?
- How is NATO responding to drone attacks near its borders?
Common question
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What triggered the recent escalation in drone attacks in Ukraine?
The ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia has seen a significant rise in drone attacks, raising questions about the motivations behind these military actions. Understanding the triggers for this escalation can provide insight into the broader implications for the region and the international community.
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What Led to the Recent Escalation in Ukraine?
The ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia has seen a significant escalation recently, particularly with Ukraine's military targeting Russian airbases. This page explores the key events that have contributed to this situation, the changing military strategies, the impact on civilians, and the international responses that have emerged.
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What Happened During Ukraine's Largest Aerial Assault?
On July 9, 2025, Ukraine faced its largest aerial assault from Russia, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict. With hundreds of drones and missiles launched, the situation has raised urgent questions about military responses and international support. Here’s what you need to know about this critical event.
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What Are the Details of Taiwan's Largest Military Drills Amid Rising Tensions?
Taiwan has launched its largest-ever military drills, known as the Han Kuang exercises, in response to escalating tensions with China. These drills are not just a show of force; they are a critical part of Taiwan's defense strategy against potential aggression. As the situation develops, many are left wondering about the implications of these exercises and how they relate to China's recent actions.
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Why Did Russia Launch a Record Drone Attack on Ukraine?
In July 2025, Russia launched a historic drone assault on Ukraine, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict. This attack involved a record-breaking 728 drones and 13 missiles, targeting key military and logistical sites. Many wonder what prompted such a massive strike and what it means for the future of the Ukraine conflict. Below, we explore the reasons behind this unprecedented attack and its wider implications.
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Ukraine is a country in Eastern Europe. It is the second-largest European country after Russia, which borders it to the east and northeast.
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Donald John Trump is an American politician, media personality, and businessman who served as the 45th president of the United States from 2017 to 2021.
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Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin is a Russian politician and former intelligence officer who has served as President of Russia since 2012, previously holding the position from 1999 until 2008.
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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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