Kyiv, Ukraine — May 12, 2026
Russia carried out a large-scale air attack on Ukraine, marking one of the most intense assaults in recent months, Ukrainian officials confirmed on May 12, 2026. President Volodymyr Selenski reported that Russian forces deployed approximately 800 drones in the strikes, underscoring a significant escalation in hostilities.
Escalating Air Campaign
The latest wave of attacks follows repeated Russian offensives targeting Ukrainian infrastructure and military positions. Ukrainian authorities anticipate further heavy air strikes, raising concerns about civilian casualties and damage to critical facilities. Moscow has also imposed restrictions on the publication of images following these attacks, limiting public access to information about the extent of the destruction.
President Selenski, who arrived in Romania to attend a regional summit, warned of continued aggression from Russia. "The situation remains extremely volatile," he said, urging NATO allies to bolster Ukraine’s air defense capabilities. Meanwhile, NATO’s eastern flank members have called for stronger air defense systems to counter the growing threat.