Russia and Ukraine Exchange Massive Overnight Drone Barrages

Russia and Ukraine each claim to have shot down approximately 200 enemy drones in a major overnight exchange of aerial attacks. Both countries' air defense forces reported intense activity. Ukrainian officials stated they intercepted over 200 Iranian-designed "Shahed" drones launched by Russia across multiple regions. Simultaneously, Russian defense ministry officials announced they had destroyed more than 200 Ukrainian drones over Russian territory, including in the annexed Crimean peninsula. The reciprocal strikes represent one of the largest reported drone engagements in the conflict. Each side accused the other of targeting civilian areas. The widespread use of drones, which are relatively inexpensive, has become a standard feature of the war. Both militaries now routinely report large-scale interceptions of these unmanned aerial vehicles.