Russia's biggest attack on Ukraine so far: 400 drones and 40 missiles destruction
On June 6, 2025, Russia carried out one of its biggest airstrikes since the war started in Ukraine in February 2022. More than 400 drones and 40 missiles were used in this attack, which targeted almost all areas of Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodimir Zelanski called the attack "cruel", saying that it killed at least six people, including three emergency employees in Kiev. In addition, around 80 people were injured, and there was heavy damage to residential areas, power plants and infrastructure in Kiev, Live, Sumi, Chenive, Odessa and other areas. The attack was a clear performance of Russia's military strategy and aggression towards Ukraine.
According to the Ukrainian Air Force, Russia used 407 drones, 38 cruise missiles, six ballistic missiles and an anti-rider missile in the attack. Of a total of 452 weapons, 406 were destroyed by Ukraine's air defense system, a notable example of its defense capacity. However, some missiles and drones managed to reach their goals, causing widespread destruction in civilian areas. A residential building was targeted in Kiev, where rescue teams were trying to vacate people trapped in the rubble. The power supply in the Leev was interrupted, and a hospital in Sumi was damaged. These attacks influenced not only military places, but also civil life.
The attack is Ukraine's response to the "Spider Web" drone attack on 1 June 2025, in which Ukraine targeted Russia's strategic bombing fleet. Many TU-95 and TU-22 bombers of Russia were damaged or destroyed in the attack, a major blow to Russia's military power. Russia planned this massive attack against Ukraine to avenge the defeat. The Russian Ministry of Defense claimed that their attack was targeted by Ukrainian military infrastructure and arms manufacturing units, but damage in civilian areas raised questions.
Zelansky strongly condemned the attack and appealed to the global community that Moscow pressured him to ceasefire. He said, "This vandalism of Russia shows that it does not want peace. We need more weapons and support so that we can protect our people." Ukraine has demanded additional air defense systems and long distance weapons from western countries to combat Russian attacks. On the other hand, Russia claimed that the attack was necessary to weaken Ukraine's military capabilities.
The attack took place at a time when peace talks between the two countries have been completely stopped. Despite the recent exchange of prisoners, the lack of trust between the two sides is clearly visible. Prior to this attack, Russia launched many small and large attacks on Ukraine, but this time intensity and scale were unprecedented. Analysts believe that Russia not only wants to weaken Ukraine through this attack, but also to give a message to Western countries that it will not reduce its military power.
Ukraine's air defense system demonstrated its potential in this attack, but due to frequent attacks, the country's defense system and resource are under pressure. Attack on power plants and other infrastructure is affecting Ukraine's economy and civil life. Electricity and water supply is disrupted in many areas, and with winter close to winter, this condition can be more severe.
The global community has condemned this attack. The United Nations has placed attacks on civilian areas as war crime and demanded an inquiry. Many NATO member countries have promised additional assistance to Ukraine, but have not agreed to impose more strict restrictions against Russia. Some countries believe that restrictions are already affecting Russia's economy, but Russia has not yet given any indication to reduce its military functions.
This attack has once again exposed the magnitude of war. For Ukraine citizens, this war has now become part of everyday life, where there is a threat to air strikes every day. On the other hand, Russia's aggression and resistance to Ukraine is carrying forward this conflict. Tension between global powers and the influence of this war is no longer limited to Ukraine and Russia, but it is also affecting the world's economy, energy market and geopolitical balance.
Ukraine is still fighting for its existence, while Russia is trying to prove its military and strategic superiority. This attack has deepened the difference between the two countries, and the possibility of peace seems far away at this time. The global community is now considering how to stop this war and protect the lives of citizens.