Zelensky Says Russia may Launch Massive Overnight Airstrikes Across Ukraine, Intensifying War

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky warned on Wednesday that Russia was likely to launch another large-scale aerial assault overnight, saying intelligence indicated that Moscow had been preparing a major strike for several days. The warning came in a message posted on social media as Ukraine remained on high alert amid continuing Russian missile and drone attacks targeting cities and critical infrastructure. In a post on X, Zelensky said there was a "high probability" that the attack would be carried out during the night.

"The Russians prepared a massive attack several days ago, and there is a high probability that the strike will be carried out tonight," he wrote. While the Ukrainian leader did not provide further operational details, the statement underscored concerns over the scale and timing of a potential new wave of Russian attacks. The warning follows months of intensified aerial bombardments by Russian forces, which have increasingly relied on a combination of long-range missiles, cruise missiles, ballistic missiles and Iranian-designed Shahed attack drones.

Ukrainian air defence systems have intercepted many incoming projectiles in recent months, but repeated strikes have continued to damage energy facilities, transport networks, industrial sites and residential areas across the country. Since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022, Ukraine has regularly issued public alerts based on intelligence assessments to encourage residents to seek shelter during periods of heightened risk. Overnight attacks have become a common feature of the conflict, with air raid sirens frequently sounding across multiple regions as authorities attempt to minimise civilian casualties.

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Ukrainian officials have repeatedly urged citizens to respond promptly to warnings and remain in protected locations until the all-clear is issued. Russia has maintained that its military operations target strategic and military infrastructure, while Ukraine says many attacks have struck civilian areas, causing casualties and widespread destruction. The conflict has resulted in thousands of deaths, the displacement of millions of people and extensive damage to infrastructure. Western nations have continued to provide military, financial and humanitarian support to Ukraine, while diplomatic efforts to end the war have so far failed to produce a lasting ceasefire.

As Ukraine prepared for the possibility of another overnight barrage, authorities remained on alert and continued coordinating air defence operations across the country. Officials have not released additional information on the intelligence behind Zelensky's warning, but they urged residents to monitor official announcements and immediately follow air raid alerts. Any confirmed strikes or damage resulting from the anticipated attack are expected to be assessed and announced by Ukrainian authorities as the situation develops.

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