Ukraine's Air Defense Shines: Russia's Drone Assault Repelled

Ukraine's air force intercepted a massive Russian drone attack, shooting down 58 of the 67 long-range Shahed drones launched overnight. Debris was found near Kyiv's parliament building. Since Russia's 2022 invasion, Shahed drones have been used as a cost-effective missile alternative.

Ukraine's air force reported on Saturday that Russia had launched a significant overnight attack involving 67 long-range Shahed drones, with 58 intercepted. The announcement was made via the Telegram messaging app, stating air defense action across 11 regions of Ukraine.

Debris from these drones was discovered near the parliament building in Kyiv, with photographs showing pieces of metal scattered around. It's unusual for Russian drones to reach central Kyiv due to its dense air defense network.

The hilltop government quarter, one of Ukraine’s most fortified areas, houses key government offices. Reuters reporters heard multiple explosions in Kyiv early Saturday, which woke the city’s residents. Moscow has relied on Shahed drones since their invasion in February 2022, using them as an economical alternative to costly missiles. The drones were launched from Russian border regions and Crimea.