Russia launched a massive overnight assault on Ukraine, firing an estimated 660 drones and missiles across multiple regions in one of the largest aerial bombardments of the year, Ukrainian officials reported Saturday. At least 16 people were killed and more than 100 wounded in the coordinated attack that targeted Kyiv, Dnipro, Odesa, and several other cities.
The Attack
Ukrainian air defense systems intercepted approximately 340 of the incoming projectiles, but the sheer volume overwhelmed defenses in several areas. The strikes hit residential buildings, energy infrastructure, and a medical facility in Dnipro where patients had to be evacuated mid-treatment.
“They are trying to break our spirit with sheer numbers,” Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in a statement. “But every missile only strengthens our resolve. We will not be intimidated.”
Easter Ceasefire Collapses
The attack comes just days after Russian President Vladimir Putin declared an Orthodox Easter ceasefire, which Kyiv dismissed as a propaganda move. Ukrainian officials reported continued drone strikes throughout the supposed truce period, and Saturday’s barrage effectively buried any remaining hopes for a diplomatic pause.
“There was never a real ceasefire,” said Ukrainian Defense Ministry spokesperson Andriy Kovalenko. “They used the holiday to reposition forces and resupply. This attack was planned for days.”
Civilian Casualties Mount
Among the dead were three children, according to regional governors. In Dnipro, a missile struck a residential apartment block, killing five members of a single family. Rescue workers continued searching through rubble through the night.
“I held my neighbor’s hand as she died,” said Olena Shevchenko, a resident of the targeted building in Dnipro. “There is no ceasefire. There is only bombing.”
Ukraine Strikes Back
Ukraine’s military responded by launching its own drone strikes against Russian oil infrastructure, targeting fuel depots in the Rostov and Belgorod regions. Russian officials confirmed fires at two oil storage facilities but said they were contained.
The tit-for-tat escalation underscores the failure of international mediation efforts. Both sides have rejected recent ceasefire proposals, with each accusing the other of using truces to regroup militarily.
International Reaction
European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas condemned the attack as “a deliberate escalation designed to terrorize civilians.” The United Nations Security Council has scheduled an emergency session for later today.
The United States, while focused on the ongoing Iran conflict, reiterated its support for Ukraine. “We stand with the Ukrainian people,” a State Department spokesperson said. “Russia must be held accountable for these atrocities.”
