Russian President Vladimir Putin unleashed a heavy assault on Ukraine's capital, Kyiv. On September 28, 2025, Russia launched a barrage of hundreds of drones and missiles, resulting in at least four fatalities. This attack carried an eerie resemblance to Israel's precision airstrikes on Iran. In both scenarios, sudden and targeted assaults delivered a shocking message to adversaries. However, the war in Ukraine has raged on for three years, and this new offensive could further escalate tensions.
On the night of September 28, Russia launched 643 drones and missiles against Ukraine, including glide bombs, with Kyiv bearing the brunt of the attack. At least four people perished, and many more were injured. Independent monitors have described this as Russia's largest assault yet. Beyond Kyiv, other cities also faced attacks.
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Source: aajtak
Ukraine's military managed to intercept several drones and missiles, but the damage was extensive. This strike is seen as retaliation for Ukraine’s recent drone attacks on Russian oil and gas plants. Putin declared it as a consequence of Ukrainian aggression.
In April 2024, Israel had attacked Iran's embassy, followed by precise airstrikes on military sites in October. These attacks were sudden, targeted, and minimized collateral damage. Putin's strategy appears similar—remote drone and missile attacks without ground invasion. In both cases, the goal was to weaken and warn the adversary.
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The difference, however, is that the Israel-Iran tensions remained confined, whereas the Ukraine war has stretched on. Experts suggest that this Russian attack is an attempt to break Ukraine's leadership spirit. The Iran-Israel conflict diverted global attention away from Ukraine, to Russia's advantage.
Source: aajtak
Since February 2022, Russia has waged war on Ukraine. Putin views this as an opportunity to correct a historical mistake of the Soviet Union. Yet, Ukraine has not surrendered. Recently, Ukraine recaptured parts of Donetsk. Russia responded with daytime drone strikes, paralyzing the lives of millions.
Trump labeled Russia as a 'paper tiger,' believing Putin is losing. Yet, Russia’s assaults persist. In June 2025, Putin offered to mediate between Israel and Iran but simultaneously intensified attacks on Ukraine.
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Smoke engulfed Kyiv. Homes, schools, and hospitals were damaged. Ukrainian President Zelensky accused Russia of targeting civilians. International aid accelerated. The USA and Europe pledged weapons to Ukraine, but Russia insisted it's Ukraine's fault.
Source: aajtak
This assault further weakened Ukraine's economy, leaving millions homeless. The world condemned the attack, yet no significant action followed.
The US, UK, and France condemned Russia. Discussions took place at the United Nations. However, Putin stated that Russia seeks peace but insists Ukraine must bow. Experts claim this assault serves as a demonstration of Russian power. Much like Israel-Iran, there are fears of escalation. Ukraine requires stronger weapons. Whether Putin's strategy succeeds or not, the agony of war is borne by the people of Ukraine.
