Russia pounds Ukraine with missiles and drones
France 24 Europe
by FRANCE24February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Russia has escalated its attacks on Ukraine with relentless missile strikes and drone campaigns, targeting key infrastructure and civilians. This aggressive tactic aims to undermine Ukrainian resilience and shift the war's momentum. The destruction of power grids, bridges, and industrial sites has caused widespread chaos, leaving millions without essential services and forcing thousands to flee their homes.
The escalation reflects Russia’s strategic focus on weakening Ukraine’s ability to sustain prolonged resistance. By targeting energy facilities, Russia seeks to create energy shortages during the winter months, further straining Ukrainian resources and morale. This approach underscores Moscow’s willingness to escalate its tactics despite international condemnation, signaling a potentially longer and more brutal conflict.
International reactions have been mixed, with some countries imposing additional sanctions while others remain cautious. The humanitarian crisis is deepening as displaced persons struggle to access basic necessities. Neighboring countries are grappling with the influx of refugees, straining their resources and infrastructure. Meanwhile, global energy markets face instability, with prices fluctuating due to disrupted supplies from Russia and other key suppliers.
The situation highlights the broader implications for global security and economic stability. Europe is particularly vulnerable, as it seeks to reduce reliance on Russian gas while managing the refugee crisis and domestic energy demands. The conflict has also drawn renewed attention to the importance of cybersecurity, with Ukraine’s defenses facing increased threats from state-sponsored attacks.
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Originally published on France 24 Europe on 2/26/2026