Ukraine has suffered its most devastating aerial assault since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion in February , with President Volodymyr Zelensky confirming that 728 drones and 13 cruise or ballistic missiles struck cities across the country overnight. The attack, described by Zelensky as a “telling” and deliberate escalation, comes as global efforts toward a ceasefire appear to stall.
The strike follows a sharp shift in U.S. foreign policy rhetoric, as former President Donald Trump voiced growing frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Trump accused Putin of duplicity, stating, “We get a lot of bullshit thrown at us by Putin… He’s very nice to us all the time, but it turns out to be meaningless.” Trump’s remarks marked a departure from his previously softer stance on the Russian leader.
The U.S. had briefly suspended military aid to Ukraine, a decision reportedly authorized by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Under-Secretary Elbridge Colby. When asked who made the decision, Trump, seated beside Hegseth, responded ambiguously: “I don’t know. Why don’t you tell me?”
Following backlash and increased Russian aggression, the U.S. reversed the suspension, with reports suggesting that up to 10 Patriot missiles could soon be delivered to Ukraine. These advanced systems are vital to Ukraine’s defense, especially against intensifying drone and missile attacks.
Western Ukrainian cities, including Lutsk, Lviv, and Rivne, bore the brunt of the latest barrage. Lutsk, located near the Polish border and serving as a key transit point for humanitarian and military supplies, was heavily targeted, highlighting Russia’s intent to disrupt supply chains.
Ceasefire negotiations remain stalled, with two previous rounds of talks yielding no progress. Both sides appear entrenched in their positions, and Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov declared on Wednesday that Russia’s offensive in the east “is moving forward.”
Zelensky condemned Russia’s continued rejection of diplomatic efforts, warning that while peace is being sought by many, Moscow remains committed to war.
As Ukraine braces for more assaults, the geopolitical friction between Washington and Moscow threatens to further escalate an already volatile conflict.
