In the past day, Ukraine significantly escalated its drone and missile attacks on Russian territory, targeting key military-industrial and energy facilities. Notably, strikes hit railway infrastructure and power systems, including in Kharkiv and Poltava regions. Tragically, Russian attacks in Poltava killed four people, including two rescuers.
For the first time, air raid sirens went off 2,000 km from the Ukrainian border—reaching the Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Area and Yekaterinburg. High-value sites were targeted: the Kirishi oil refinery in the Leningrad region and the VNIIR Progress plant in Cheboksary, which produces "Kometa" antennas used to shield Russian drones from Ukrainian electronic warfare.
Reports indicate that Kyiv now launches more drones into Russia than Russia does into Ukraine. These strikes hit military-industrial complexes, oil refineries, export terminals, drilling platforms, and chemical plants across various Russian regions. Videos showed explosions and frequent alarms in Russian cities, especially ahead of the May 9 Victory Day parade preparations.
Russia's Ministry of Defense declared a unilateral ceasefire on May 8–9 to allow the parade in Moscow, submitting the proposal to US President Donald Trump rather than Ukraine. The Ukrainian side noted a mirror response to any Russian ceasefire, with future actions depending on Russia's reply.
The activity of Ukrainian drones is already having a psychological and economic impact in Russia, boosting Ukraine's morale, undermining Russian exports and armament. Ukrainian forces are receiving new equipment and public support to continue operations. The next steps of Ukrainian forces will depend on further Russian actions and any developments surrounding Victory Day events.
