Russia says 660 Ukrainian drones downed in massive overnight attack

Russian air defenses intercepted 660 Ukrainian drones during a significant nighttime assault targeting 12 Russian regions, the Crimean peninsula, and the Black and Azov Seas, Russia's Defense Ministry announced Friday. This attack appears to be one of the largest drone strikes on Russia and occupied Crimea since the full-scale invasion began over four years ago.

For months, Ukraine has employed long-range drones to strike targets behind Russian front lines, including oil production and energy facilities. Western officials and analysts suggest this campaign has disrupted Russian fuel supplies and military deliveries, hindering Russia's progress on the battlefield and increasing pressure on President Vladimir Putin.

“

a 40-day influence operation

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated on X that he had ordered a 40-day "influence operation," interpreted as an escalation of attacks, aimed at forcing Russia to end the war. He noted that recent foreign support, including promises from U.S. President Donald Trump at a G7 summit, would bolster Ukraine's efforts to bring Putin to the negotiating table. A forthcoming NATO summit is also seen as a potential opportunity to enhance Ukraine's military capabilities.

Initial reports from Russia regarding damage from the overnight attack were scarce. The Russian Defense Ministry typically does not specify targeted locations in Ukraine's drone attacks or detail any resulting damage. However, reports emerged of a private house being damaged and a woman wounded in the Tula region, south of Moscow, according to Tula Governor Dmitry Milyaev. An unspecified industrial facility and a power line were also reportedly damaged in Novomoskovsk. Independent outlet Astra reported that a chemical plant and a hydroelectric plant in Novomoskovsk were attacked and caught fire, though this could not be independently verified by The Associated Press.

“

compelling (Russia) to end the war