Russia Launches Fresh Drone Barrage After Ceasefire Ends in Ukraine
Kyiv reports widespread attacks on civilian infrastructure as European nations debate expanding defence support.
KYIV, May 13 : A temporary three day ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine collapsed on May 12 as Moscow launched a new wave of large-scale drone and missile attacks targeting Ukrainian cities and infrastructure.
Ukrainian officials said more than 200 drones were deployed overnight, striking energy facilities, transport hubs and residential areas across several regions. Emergency services reported civilian casualties and extensive damage to public infrastructure.
The renewed assault highlighted the continuing instability of the conflict despite repeated international appeals for negotiations. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accused Russia of deliberately targeting civilian areas and undermining all diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing violence.
European Union defence ministers meeting in Brussels described the attacks as a major escalation and discussed additional military aid packages for Ukraine. The talks also focused on strengthening Europe’s defence manufacturing capacity amid growing security concerns across the continent.
Several European nations signaled support for accelerating weapons production and enhancing air defence systems to help Ukraine counter repeated aerial assaults. NATO officials warned that the conflict remains one of the most serious security threats facing Europe in decades.
Meanwhile, Russia defended its military operations, claiming that Ukrainian infrastructure linked to military logistics had been targeted. Moscow has repeatedly accused Western countries of prolonging the war through military assistance to Kyiv.
The humanitarian toll of the war continues to grow. Millions remain displaced while damage to critical infrastructure has strained Ukraine’s economy and public services.
International agencies expressed concern that another prolonged escalation could worsen food security and energy challenges globally, particularly as oil and commodity prices remain volatile due to simultaneous Middle East tensions.
Analysts believe the latest attacks demonstrate that both sides remain far apart on negotiations despite mounting war fatigue and economic pressure.
