Russia Unleashes One of War’s Largest Air Assaults on Ukraine, Killing at Least Five

by Worthy News Europe Bureau Staff

(Worthy News) – Russia launched a massive overnight air assault on Friday, June 6, in one of the most intense attacks of the war, killing at least five civilians and injuring more than 70 across Ukraine. The barrage, which included over 450 drones and 45 missiles, caused widespread destruction in the capital Kyiv and at least eight other regions, Ukrainian officials confirmed.

In Kyiv, four people were killed and more than 20 injured, including three emergency workers who died responding to fires triggered by missile strikes and falling debris. Blazes erupted in residential high-rises and near the city center, leaving over 2,000 households on the eastern bank without power.

According to the Ukrainian Air Force, Russian forces deployed Iranian-made Shahed drones and Iskander ballistic missiles. Of the 452 drones launched, roughly 200 were intercepted, along with 36 of the 45 missiles. Ukrainian defenses, including mobile fire teams, electronic warfare units, and anti-aircraft systems, were activated across the country.

Beyond Kyiv, Volyn Oblast saw 15 injuries after drone strikes hit an apartment building, while Ternopil and Kherson each reported 10 injuries — including emergency responders. Additional damage and casualties were confirmed in Poltava, Zaporizhzhia, Chernihiv, Kharkiv, and Sumy.

The attack came just days after Ukrainian drones struck Russian bomber bases, reportedly damaging several aircraft. In response, Russian President Vladimir Putin warned of imminent retaliation during a call with U.S. President Donald Trump.

“It’s probably not going to be pretty,” Trump said afterward. Hosting German Chancellor Friedrich Merz at the White House, Trump compared the war to “two young children fighting on a playground,” saying, “Sometimes you’re better off letting them fight for a while and then pulling them apart.”

The Kremlin dismissed the analogy. “This is not child’s play. It is an existential issue,” spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, affirming that Russia’s actions are rooted in defending national interests and security.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who has proposed a 30-day cease-fire and direct talks with Moscow, condemned the assault as terrorism. “Russia is systematically targeting civilians,” said Ukraine’s Human Rights Commissioner Dmytro Lubinets, urging international action.

Since the start of 2025, Russia has launched more than 27,700 aerial bombs, 11,200 Shahed drones, 9,000 strike drones, and over 700 missiles, according to Ukrainian officials. Friday’s strike, one of the largest coordinated air campaigns to date, underscores the ongoing escalation in a war now entering its third year.

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