Russia launched one of its largest aerial assaults yet, firing hundreds of drones and dozens of missiles across Ukraine in a coordinated strike wave. Despite intercepting many, Ukrainian officials said multiple cities suffered direct hits, killing civilians and damaging key infrastructure. The escalation comes as Kyiv deepens ties with Gulf nations on drone defence, a move that may have triggered Moscow’s response. NATO forces scrambled jets as drones neared alliance airspace, raising fears of spillover. With the Iran crisis shifting global focus, Ukraine now faces intensified pressure on multiple fronts.