Russia and Ukraine have each launched their largest drone strikes since the conflict began, signaling heightened tensions. Russia’s defense ministry reported intercepting 84 Ukrainian drones over six regions, including some targeting Moscow, which led to flight disruptions at major airports. Meanwhile, Ukraine’s air force confirmed that 145 Russian drones targeted various parts of Ukraine, with the majority shot down. These escalations come amid global anticipation of how U.S. president-elect Donald Trump might influence efforts to resolve the conflict.
Ukraine’s latest strike on Moscow was the largest to date, with drones downed in multiple districts and injuries reported in Ramenskoye, where falling debris sparked fires. In Ukraine, two people were injured in the Odesa region after drone debris caused significant damage. While Ukrainian forces reportedly downed 62 Iranian-made drones, others crossed into neighboring countries. Additionally, Russian forces recorded their highest casualties since the war’s start, with the UK’s chief of defense reporting an average of 1,500 daily Russian casualties in October.
As drone attacks intensify, speculation grows around Trump’s stance on the conflict. Trump has suggested he could end the war “in a day,” though details remain unclear. Former Trump advisor Bryan Lanza indicated that the new administration might prioritize peace over Ukraine’s territorial ambitions. Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov hinted at “positive” signals from Trump’s campaign rhetoric, which emphasized peace. Ukrainian President Zelensky, however, remains firm on defending Ukraine’s territory and warns that U.S. aid is crucial for Ukraine’s survival.