Ukraine Launches Largest Drone Attack on Russian Targets with Over 200 UAVs

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In a significant escalation of military operations, the Ukrainian military conducted an unprecedented series of drone and missile strikes on Russian targets in the early hours of Tuesday. This attack utilized more than 200 long-range drones, marking it as the largest aerial offensive to date against Russian military assets. Reports indicate that at least seven Russian provinces were targeted, with notable damage to key industrial sites.

Among the new assets deployed was the Peklo drone, recently introduced by Ukraine, alongside American-made Atacms missiles and British Storm Shadow cruise missiles. This coordinated approach, aimed at overwhelming Russian air defenses, highlights Ukraine's strategic use of Western weaponry since approval for such attacks was granted by the U.S. government in November 2024.

Russian military bloggers confirmed that multiple critical facilities, including oil refineries and ammunition depots, suffered major damage. Video footage circulating on social media showcased flames erupting from a fuel storage area at the Engels military airport in Saratov, a vital base for Russian long-range bombers that have been conducting strikes against Ukraine.

While these strikes are causing logistical challenges for Russian forces, experts caution that they have not significantly altered the frontline dynamics. Russian troops have continued to make territorial gains in recent months. However, the impact of drone operations is becoming evident in the energy sector, with notable disruptions to Russian oil refining capabilities.

Authorities in Moscow have responded to the rising costs and supply chain issues resulting from these attacks by implementing export bans on petroleum products. The continued Ukrainian drone strikes serve as a reminder of Kyiv's operational capacity to strike deep into Russian territory, potentially influencing future negotiations for an end to the ongoing conflict.

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