Russia Pounds Ukraine with Massive Drone Strikes /Lt Col Daniel Davis

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The war between Russia and Ukraine is intensifying, growing more violent and escalating rather than moving toward peace. A recent Ukrainian drone strike deep inside Russia damaged bomber bases, but this has provoked a major retaliatory response: Russia launched over 400 drones and missiles, overwhelming Ukraine’s air defenses. Many of these were advanced Iranian-made drones now upgraded by Russia, making them harder to intercept. Ukrainian forces reportedly intercepted only about half the attacks, and even Patriot systems were either ineffective or destroyed.

Footage shows multiple successful Russian missile strikes on Ukrainian infrastructure, with minimal air defense response in cities like Lviv, Luts’k, and Kyiv. A key Patriot battery was hit after firing multiple interceptors, underscoring the diminishing effectiveness and availability of Ukraine's defense systems. U.S. officials have stated no more Patriot systems are available to send, and European allies are reluctant to share theirs.

On the ground, Russian forces continue to advance across several fronts while Ukraine’s counterattacks gain minimal territory. Meanwhile, Ukrainian leadership and supporters publicly celebrated the drone strike on Russia—seen by the commentator as a “one-off” success that is unlikely to be repeated due to increased Russian security and vigilance.

The overall message is grim: Ukraine’s strategic position is deteriorating, its defenses are being depleted, and the West appears unwilling or unable to provide the necessary support to reverse the trend. The war is not winding down—it is accelerating in a direction unfavorable to Ukraine.