Moscow has been increasing its use of drones in Ukraine, causing concerns for Ukrainian air defenses and civilians. A recent attack on Kyiv lasted eight hours and included a combination of singular and swarm formation drones. While Ukrainian air defenses were able to neutralize some of the drones, falling debris caused damage to buildings in the capital, including a hospital. Two people were injured in the attacks. Russia has also targeted the city of Zaporizhzhia, killing at least one person and injuring 10 others.
The increased use of drones by Russia is seen as a way to save missiles and terrorize civilians. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed that Russia has significantly expanded its drone operations in Ukraine, deploying around 10 times more drones than they were using a year ago. Despite the increasing drone attacks, Ukraine’s forces are struggling to match the power of Russia’s military. Western support, including financial, military, and humanitarian aid, remains crucial for Ukraine to sustain itself in the ongoing conflict.
The European Union has provided almost €125 billion in aid to Ukraine, with plans to donate a further €50 billion by 2027. However, concerns arise following the election of Donald Trump as the next President of the United States. Trump has been critical of US aid to Ukraine and has expressed a desire to end the war quickly, though he has not provided details on his plans to do so. Trump’s past statements, including suggesting that Russia should be allowed to do what they want to NATO members who fall short on their dues, have raised concerns among allies.
Amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Russian drone attacks continue to escalate, causing damage to buildings and injuring civilians. Ukrainian air defenses are struggling to keep up with the increased use of drones by Russia, which is seen as a cost-effective way to terrorize civilians. Despite the support from Western allies, including the European Union and the United States, concerns remain about the future of aid to Ukraine under the incoming Trump administration. As tensions rise and attacks intensify, the situation in Ukraine remains volatile and uncertain.
