Russia to Launch 'Large-Scale and Regular' Attacks Against Ukraine After Major Drone Strike

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov announced on Thursday that Moscow will carry out "large-scale and regular coordinated attacks" against Ukraine, retaliating for a significant Ukrainian drone strike on Moscow earlier this week. Speaking in Kazan, Russia, Lavrov did not provide specific details about the timing or targets of the planned operations but emphasized that the strikes would be systematic and intense.

The statement marks a sharp escalation in rhetoric from the Kremlin, coming after what Ukrainian officials described as a precision operation targeting military infrastructure in the Russian capital. The drone attack, the largest of its kind on Moscow since the start of the war, prompted Russian authorities to activate air defenses and temporarily close several airports.

Ukrainian leaders have not publicly commented on Lavrov's announcement, but military analysts suggest that Kyiv is preparing for an increase in aerial bombardments and ground offensives. The conflict has seen both sides ramp up long-range strikes in recent weeks, with Ukraine targeting Russian energy and military facilities while Russia continues to pound Ukrainian cities with missiles and drones.

International observers have condemned the widening scope of violence, with calls for de-escalation growing louder. The United Nations Secretary-General urged both sides to return to diplomacy, warning that "further escalation could lead to catastrophic consequences for the entire region."