Ukraine Hit by 537-Weapon Russian Airstrike, F-16 Pilot Killed
In its most aggressive aerial assault since the 2022 invasion, Russia launched 537 aerial weapons on Ukraine overnight. The devastating attack included hundreds of drones and cruise missiles, targeting cities far from the front lines. Tragically, a Ukrainian F-16 fighter pilot died while attempting to defend against the barrage.
F-16 Pilot Dies Saving Lives
According to the Ukrainian Air Force, the pilot veered away from populated areas before the crash, leaving no time to eject. His heroic act prevented further casualties. This marks the third F-16 jet loss since their deployment in Ukraine.
Extent of the Assault
The massive Russian attack consisted of 477 drones and 60 missiles, many of which were aimed at urban infrastructure. Ukrainian forces destroyed 211 drones and 38 missiles. Another 226 were jammed or identified as decoys.
Residential areas in Lviv, Kyiv, and Cherkasy saw power outages, fires, and structural damage. Civilians sought shelter in metro stations as explosions lit the night sky. At least 12 people were injured and 10 confirmed dead, including multiple casualties in Kherson, Kharkiv, and Dnipropetrovsk.
Zelensky Appeals to the U.S. for Urgent Support
Following the attack, President Volodymyr Zelensky renewed his plea for increased military aid from the United States and NATO. He emphasized the need to bolster air defence systems to deter similar future assaults.
“Ukraine cannot face this scale of attack alone,” Zelensky said in a late-night address. He called for faster delivery of missile defence systems and intelligence support.
Poland and Allies on Alert
As drone fragments crossed borders, Polish air defences were activated. NATO radar systems also detected aerial activity near its eastern flank. Though no injuries occurred outside Ukraine, the threat to nearby countries remains high.
Russia Claims Gains in Donetsk
Meanwhile, Russia’s defence ministry claimed it had captured Novoukrainka, a village in Donetsk. Its troops reportedly continue to make small gains along the 1,000-km front, albeit at high cost.
Back in Russia, Ukrainian drones hit Bryansk, injuring two civilians. Seven additional drones were downed, according to Russian officials.
Diplomatic Tensions Continue
The strike came just days after President Vladimir Putin expressed interest in reviving peace talks in Istanbul. Ukraine, however, remains sceptical, citing past talks that failed to produce any meaningful outcomes.
