Defense & Geopolitics — 2026-03-25
Russia Launches Record 948 Drones in 24 Hours Against Ukraine as Spring Offensive Begins
Russia launched 948 drones against Ukraine in a 24-hour period, one of the largest aerial attacks of the war. The assault included 23 cruise missiles and 7 ballistic missiles alongside the drone swarms, hitting at least seven cities in a rare daytime follow-up wave of over 550 attack drones targeting central and western regions. At least 7 people were killed and 55 injured. A UNESCO World Heritage Site around St. Andrew's Church in Lviv sustained damage. Military analysts assess this marks the opening of Russia's spring offensive, with troops and equipment moving to the front line. Ukraine's Litavr air defense system intercepted a Shahed drone in a manner not previously seen, setting a world record.
Analysis
Prior digest noted ISW assessed Russia's spring-summer 2026 offensive had begun, with 405 of 500 attackers killed (81%) in a single Fortress Belt assault. The 948-drone record barrage confirms the offensive's aerial dimension has opened with unprecedented intensity.
Prior digest noted ISW assessed Russia's spring-summer 2026 offensive had begun, with 405 of 500 attackers killed (81%) in a single Fortress Belt assault. The 948-drone record barrage confirms the offensive's aerial dimension has opened with unprecedented intensity.