Ukraine Executes Largest Drone Strike on Russian Targets Using Over 200 Drones

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In a significant escalation of its offensive capabilities, the Ukrainian military launched its largest drone and missile assault on Russian territory, deploying more than 200 long-range drones. This unprecedented attack occurred overnight, targeting key military and industrial facilities across at least seven Russian provinces, resulting in multiple fires, including one at an oil refinery in Saratov.

Ukrainian forces utilized a new type of drone named Peklo, Ukrainian for "hell," which had been introduced just a month prior. This latest aerial campaign marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing conflict, as it is the most extensive use of long-range drones by Ukraine to date, surpassing previous attacks that peaked at 188 drones in a single night by Russian forces.

In conjunction with the drone strikes, the U.S.-supplied Atacms missiles and British Storm Shadow cruise missiles were reportedly used, augmenting Ukraine's ability to strike deep into enemy territory following a policy shift by the Biden administration in late 2024. However, these long-range weapon systems remain limited, with estimates suggesting the Ukrainian military has only a small number of Atacms available.

The strikes have concentrated on strategic industrial sites, including chemical and metal factories that support Russian military production. While these operations have intensified discussions on potential peace negotiations due to the fear of ongoing damage to key industrial assets in Russia, experts note that the assaults have not yet significantly altered the dynamics on the battlefield, where Russian forces continue to advance.

The ramifications of these drone strikes extend to the energy sector, with reports indicating that attacks on refineries have led to substantial reductions in refining capacities. As a protective measure, Moscow has imposed an export ban on petroleum products in an effort to stabilize domestic prices. Nevertheless, conflicts in Ukraine present ongoing challenges for both sides as they navigate the evolving warfare landscape.

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