Russia fired a record number of long-range drones at Ukraine in May, according to an AFP analysis of Ukrainian air force data released Monday. Kyiv used the occasion to renew its appeal for increased air defense support from Western allies.
Record Drone Barrage
Russia launched 8,150 long-range drones in May, based on daily air force reports compiled by AFP. This represents a 24% increase compared to the number fired in April, setting a new monthly record since the invasion began.
Ukraine has developed a robust network of air defense systems capable of intercepting most drones, but it remains heavily dependent on Western allies to counter Russian missiles. Kyiv intercepted approximately 91% of all incoming drones and missiles in May, according to air force data.
Missile Attacks Continue
In addition to drones, Russia fired 211 missiles in May, one of the highest monthly figures. This comes as Kyiv urgently calls on the United States for ammunition supplies for its Patriot anti-missile systems. One of the worst attacks on the capital occurred in May when a missile struck a residential building, killing two dozen people as part of a larger barrage.
Moscow also deployed its nuclear-capable ballistic missile, dubbed Oreshnik, for only the third time during the invasion.
Air Defense Challenges
Ukrainian officials have repeatedly warned that stocks of anti-missile systems and ammunition are running low. President Volodymyr Zelensky directly appealed to US President Donald Trump last month for help intercepting Russian missiles. The deficits have been exacerbated by the war in the Middle East, where US allies have expended large quantities of air defense ammunition protecting sites in the Gulf.
Diplomatic Efforts Stalled
A three-day truce last month raised hopes for broader peace efforts, but Kyiv and Moscow accused each other of violations and escalated long-range attacks. Trump re-entered the White House last year vowing to quickly end the Ukraine war, but talks stalled as both sides remain at odds over Russia's territorial demands. Diplomatic efforts further derailed after Washington's attention shifted to the US-Israeli war on Iran that erupted on February 28.
