Nearly 300 drones, 50 missiles: Russia unleashes massive overnight assault on Ukraine, energy sites hit
Times of India
by TOI WORLD DESKFebruary 22, 2026
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Russia launched a devastating overnight attack on Ukraine, deploying nearly 300 drones and 50 missiles in what appears to be one of the largest assaults since the start of the conflict nearly four years ago. The strike primarily targeted energy infrastructure in southern Ukraine, causing significant damage and fires that were later brought under control. In Kyiv’s suburbs, at least one person was killed, and eight others, including a child, were rescued from rubble after buildings were destroyed. The attack also hit an oil depot in the Russian-occupied Luhansk region, injuring a security guard and igniting a fuel tank.
Ukraine’s air force reported that 274 drones and 33 missiles were neutralized, while 14 missiles and 23 drones managed to strike 14 locations. The remaining three missiles were unaccounted for, according to the statement. This latest barrage underscores Moscow’s continued focus on crippling Ukraine’s energy grid, which has led to widespread power and heating disruptions during the harsh winter months. The attack comes as part of a broader pattern of intensified Russian strikes on critical infrastructure, aiming to undermine Ukraine’s ability to sustain its population through the freezing conditions.
Separately, an explosion in Lviv killed one person and injured 25, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. While no immediate link was found between this incident and Russia’s aerial campaign, it highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Ukraine as it contends with both direct military assaults and internal security threats. On the Russian side, their defense ministry claimed to have destroyed 86 Ukrainian drones overnight, showcasing their advanced air defense capabilities.
This relentless cycle of attacks and counterattacks underscores the escalating stakes in the conflict. For readers interested in global affairs, the situation in Ukraine serves as a stark reminder of the human toll of prolonged warfare, particularly on civilians caught in the crossfire. The targeting of energy infrastructure not only disrupts daily life but also raises concerns about long-term recovery and rebuilding efforts in war-torn regions. As winter continues to bite, the humanitarian crisis deepens, making the situation in Ukraine a pressing issue for international关注.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/22/2026