Russian Drone-Missile Barrage Hits Key Ukrainian Troop Positions; 300 Reportedly Dead

Ukraine endured another wave of attacks overnight, as Russian forces launched dozens of drones and missiles across several regions, reportedly killing around 300 Ukrainian servicemen.

The Russian Ministry of Defense reported on Telegram that Operational-Tactical Aviation and Missile Troops conducted strikes in the Sumy region, targeting Ukrainian military concentrations and reserves. “During the day, the AFU (Armed Forces of Ukraine) losses were more than 300 people, 10 armoured vehicles, including seven tanks, two German-made Leopard tanks, one infantry fighting vehicle, two armoured fighting vehicles as well as one British-made AS-90 self-propelled artillery system, two mortars, and 11 motor vehicles,” the ministry said.

Additionally, eight Ukrainian servicemen allegedly surrendered.

Two Iskander-M ballistic missiles were reportedly launched against the Poltava and Odesa regions, and two Kh-59 guided air missiles targeted the Chernihiv and Sumy regions.

Zelensky Calls for Enhanced Air Defense Systems

In response to the continued attacks, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made a public appeal to Western nations for immediate and enhanced military aid. Zelensky stated that within a single week, Russian forces had used approximately 900 guided aerial bombs, over 40 missiles, and 400 strike drones across Ukraine.

“No nation should have to endure such trials alone,” Zelensky said. “Our partners have the ability to provide the necessary quantity and quality of air defense systems. Time must not be wasted—a clear signal of resolve must be sent.”

The Russian Ministry of Defence posted an update on Telegram, stating that Ukrainian losses included more than 22,600 servicemen, 157 tanks, and nearly 1,000 armored fighting vehicles over the course of the ongoing campaign.