Ukraine Struggles to Block Russian Drone and Missile Assault

In a late‑night attack that many are calling the "scariest night" of the war, Russia fired 115 drones and 24 ballistic missiles at Ukrainian territory. Ukraine’s air defence forces, already stretched thin, managed to intercept most of the drones but could shut down only a handful of the missiles.

The assault resulted in 21 fatalities and dozens more wounded. One victim, Anastasiia Dudley, saw her home nearly destroyed after the barrage – a stark reminder of the human toll of the conflict. BBC's Dan Johnson visited the site to record the damage and speak with residents about the emotional shock they are experiencing.

With Ukraine's aerial shields vulnerable, the attack raises pressing questions about how the country can protect its cities from future raids. While Ukraine ramped up drone interceptions, the missile failure underscores the need for more robust, layered air defence systems.

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