Throughout April 22, Ukrainian military and air defense forces successfully repelled a large-scale Russian raid, downing 77 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) over our territory
According to official data from the Ukrainian Air Forces, out of the total number of drones launched by the enemy, 38 were shot down by our air defense systems, while another 31 were irretrievably lost due to targeted destruction. This indicates that on this day, the Russian aggressor carried out one of the most extensive attacks in recent times, employing a wide spectrum of UAVs, including strike Shaheds as well as decoys designed to create the illusion of a massive strike. According to sources within the Ukrainian Air Forces, the majority of drone launches were carried out from territory of the Russian Federation, particularly from regions such as Kursk, Bryansk, and the Primorsko-Akhtersk zone, which are located near the Ukrainian border. The attacks were accompanied by a large-scale air defense operation, including aviation assets, missile defense systems, electronic warfare operations, and mobile firing groups of the defense forces. This comprehensive response allowed us to halt most of the UAV attacks, reducing their effectiveness and preventing partial destruction on the ground. Specifically, as of 6 p.m., Ukrainian forces confirmed the downing of 38 Shahed-type drones used to strike strategic and civilian targets across different regions of the country — in the east, north, south, and central areas. These drones constituted the main part of the enemy’s strikes, with minimal losses among our air defense units. In addition, the Russians launched over 130 guided aerial bombs toward Ukrainian territory, one of which hit a multi-story building in Zaporizhzhia, causing destruction and casualties. Damage and injuries were also recorded in Kharkiv and Cherkasy regions, demonstrating the scale and severity of this nighttime attack. Ukrainian defenders, mobilized in response to the complex situation, not only shot down most attacking drones but also managed to localize and prevent even greater losses among civilians and infrastructure. This is yet another proof of the high combat effectiveness of the Ukrainian army in confronting modern air aggression, as well as an indication of the complex but effective air defense system of our country. Today, the situation remains tense, but Ukrainian military and citizens know — the entire country is fighting and holding the front both in the air and on the ground.