Russia Launches Large-Scale Attack on Ukraine, Killing 3 and Injuring Dozens

Russia launched a large-scale missile and drone attack targeting regions across Ukraine early on September 20, 2025, resulting in at least three deaths and dozens of injuries, according to Ukrainian officials. The strikes began before dawn, with air raid alerts sounding nationwide and explosions reported in several major cities, including Dnipro, Mykolaiv, and Pavlohrad. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that the attacks targeted infrastructure, residential areas, and civilian enterprises, describing the assault as a deliberate strategy to intimidate civilians and destroy critical infrastructure.

Scope and Impact of the Attack

The Ukrainian Air Force reported that Russia launched a total of 579 drones, eight ballistic missiles, and 32 cruise missiles during the assault. Ukrainian air defenses successfully shot down 552 drones, two ballistic missiles, and 29 cruise missiles. Direct strikes were confirmed in at least ten locations, with significant damage to high-rise buildings, homes, and garages, particularly in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast. Regional Governor Serhii Lysak reported one fatality and at least 26 injuries in Dnipropetrovsk, with the number of wounded later rising to 30. In Khmelnytskyi, a man in his 50s was found dead after a fire, and two others were injured. Kyiv Oblast authorities noted damage to homes, garage units, and vehicles in Bucha, Boryspil, and Obukhiv, while Mykolaiv’s mayor confirmed damage in residential areas but no casualties.

Regional and International Response

The attack prompted Poland’s Air Force to scramble NATO fighter jets to protect Polish airspace, reflecting heightened regional tensions following recent Russian drone incursions into NATO territory. Estonia also reported a violation of its airspace by Russian MiG-31 jets on September 19, leading Tallinn to request consultations under NATO’s Article 4. These incidents have intensified discussions among European officials about strengthening defensive measures, including the creation of a "drone wall" along NATO’s eastern flank.

Ukrainian and Russian Statements

President Zelenskyy condemned the attacks, emphasizing that the use of cluster munitions against civilian targets constitutes a deliberate campaign of intimidation. The Ukrainian Air Force highlighted the effectiveness of Western-supplied F-16 fighter jets in intercepting Russian cruise missiles. Russia’s Defense Ministry denied any violation of Estonian airspace, asserting that its aircraft remained in neutral Baltic Sea waters during scheduled flights.

Ongoing Military Operations and Casualties

The Ukrainian General Staff reported continued heavy fighting along multiple frontlines, with Russian forces suffering significant losses. Over the past day, Ukrainian officials claimed that Russian casualties exceeded 1,070 personnel, alongside substantial equipment losses. The broader context of the war remains marked by frequent missile and drone attacks, ongoing ground clashes, and persistent threats to civilian infrastructure and safety.

The September 20 attack underscores the escalating intensity of Russia’s campaign against Ukraine, with widespread civilian impact and growing international concern over the conflict’s potential spillover into neighboring NATO countries.