In a striking escalation of the ongoing conflict, Russia launched its most extensive aerial assault on Ukraine to date, prompting sharp reactions from the international community and sparking a rare public rebuke from former U.S. President Donald Trump. The attack, characterized by the unprecedented use of 355 drones and nine cruise missiles, marks a significant intensification in Russia's military strategy since their full-scale invasion in February 2022.

According to Kyiv’s air force, the barrage was the largest drone offensive against Ukraine, emphasizing the severity of Moscow's military campaign. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the attack, asserting that only "a sense of total impunity" could explain Russia’s willingness to execute such widespread strikes and continue expanding their scale. Early Monday, sirens piercing Ukraine signaled the incoming threat, with reports indicating multiple injuries and casualties across various regions.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov described the attack as a response to Ukrainian assaults on Russian social infrastructure. He characterized the drone surge as an “emotional overload” for those involved but maintained that decisions made by President Vladimir Putin were "necessary for Russia’s security." The Russian Defense Ministry reported that air defense systems managed to destroy 20 Ukrainian drones over several Russian territories during the attack.

The toll in Ukraine was tragic, with at least 12 individuals confirmed dead and dozens wounded as Russia’s aerial assault unfolded overnight. The incident underscores how the conflict has spiraled into a relentless barrage, with Kyiv's forces repeatedly calling for stronger international action. Kyiv has lamented the “silence” from Washington over recent attacks, urging the United States and its allies to increase pressure through more severe sanctions against Moscow.

Amid the chaos, Trump inserted himself into the narrative, voicing criticism and concern from his location in New Jersey. “I’ve known him a long time, always gotten along with him, but he’s sending rockets into cities and killing people, and I don’t like it at all,” Trump stated. When asked whether he was contemplating ramping up sanctions on Russia, he replied affirmatively, suggesting that the U.S. should consider stricter measures. Later, via his Truth Social account, Trump branded Putin as "absolutely crazy," asserting that the Russian leader's ambitions to control all of Ukraine could lead to Russia’s downfall.

Trump also expressed disapproval of Ukrainian President Zelensky, criticizing his rhetoric as counterproductive. “He’s doing his country no favors with the way he talks,” Trump claimed, indicating a fraught stance toward Kyiv even amidst Western efforts to bolster Ukrainian resistance.

The international community continues to grapple with the escalating violence. While European allies prepare further sanctions against Moscow, the United States remains cautious yet cautious about potential pathways to peace. The U.S. has indicated it is open to brokering negotiations but warns that action remains contingent on progress.

Peskov expressed gratitude to the United States, particularly to President Trump, for assisting in initiating diplomatic talks—highlighting a surprising acknowledgment amidst recent tensions. Last week, Trump and Putin engaged in a two-hour phone call discussing a proposed ceasefire deal. Trump described the conversation as "very well" and claimed both sides should immediately begin negotiations to end the conflict. Kyiv has publicly accepted a 30-day ceasefire, but Russia’s vague commitment to a “memorandum” on a “possible future peace” has been viewed skeptically as a delaying tactic by Kyiv and its allies.

The last direct talks between Ukraine and Russia occurred in Istanbul in May, marking a fragile diplomatic effort that has yet to yield significant progress. With approximately 20% of Ukrainian territory under Russian control—including Crimea, annexed in 2014—the path to peace remains obstructed by entrenched interests and mutual mistrust.

As the conflict rages on, the world watches closely, with the latest Russian assault highlighting the urgent need for sustained international action to curb the violence and seek a lasting resolution. RNG247 continues to monitor developing events.