- 264 Russian drone strikes hit Ukraine in 48-hour onslaught
- 24 civilians killed in residential and commercial areas
- US intelligence sharing paused under Trump's peace push
- Ukrainian forces conduct 88 drone counterstrikes across Russia
- EU leaders warn of rising civilian toll without Western support
Ukrainian air defenses scrambled to intercept a record wave of Russian drone attacks over the weekend, with officials reporting 264 assaults across six regions. The bombardment killed at least 24 civilians, including strikes on apartment complexes and a shopping center in Dobropillia. This eastern city has become emblematic of Russia's intensified targeting of urban centers, with local officials reporting three ballistic missile hits in 72 hours.
The surge in attacks coincides with President Trump's controversial suspension of $600 million in military assistance and satellite intelligence sharing. Ukrainian commanders confirm the policy shift has already impacted frontline operations, with one artillery unit near Kharkiv reporting a 40% reduction in target acquisition accuracy since losing access to US satellite data.
European leaders issued blistering condemnations of the violence, with Polish President Donald Tusk declaring, 'Appeasement fuels Russian aggression.' EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas emphasized the need for urgent weapons transfers, stating, 'Every delayed tank shipment translates to preventable Ukrainian deaths.' Analysts note the weekend's 119-drone night assault marks a tactical shift, with Russian forces now deploying cheaper Iranian-designed drones in swarm attacks to overwhelm air defenses.
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy vowed continued resistance while acknowledging growing challenges. 'Our anti-aircraft missiles are rationed, but our resolve isn't,' he stated during a visit to damaged energy infrastructure in Poltava. The government continues pressing for advanced air defense systems, with Germany pledging six additional IRIS-T units by month's end.
As diplomatic efforts intensify, next week's Saudi Arabia talks will test whether stalled US support impacts Ukraine's negotiating position. Military experts warn the aid freeze creates a dangerous window of opportunity for Russian forces, particularly in southern Ukraine where drone-directed artillery fire has increased 300% since March 1.
