After a three-day pause, Russian invaders have once again intensified their drone attacks, causing another round of tense air operations across Ukraine
On the night of May 11, units of the Russian army launched 108 strike drones of the Shahed type and decoys—devices that imitate real UAVs to create smoke and noise screens—into Ukrainian territory. This marked a significant escalation in enemy activity in the country's airspace, although Ukrainian anti-aircraft forces were able to effectively counter these attacks. According to representatives of the Ukrainian Air Force, the majority of attacking drones were shot down before reaching their targets. Out of the 108 devices launched by the enemy, Ukrainian defenders managed to shoot down 60—that is, more than half of the drones launched. An additional 41 UAVs were declared "locationally lost," meaning their destruction or inability to be precisely identified within the combat zone. These figures testify to the high professionalism and coordination of Ukrainian air defense in combating the drone threat. Sources reporting on this incident confirm that strikes were registered in various regions of the country—including the east, north, south, and center. The northern and eastern parts were especially active—exactly where the greatest amount of damage was recorded. Preliminary data indicates that repair work is still ongoing in Sumy region to clear the destruction caused by the night attacks. Regarding other regions, they also experienced drone infiltration attempts, but the success of Russian aviation in this night operation was significantly lower. A notable episode was the attack on Kyiv and its suburbs that occurred in the morning of May 11. The enemy used drones to target strategic facilities in the capital and nearby districts. Local officials report damage to infrastructure and civilian objects in two such districts. The situation is currently under control, but each new attack reminds us of the high intensity and precision of Russian military tactics. Overall, the situation remains tense. Ukrainian aviation and air defense systems demonstrate high effectiveness, reducing losses and thwarting large-scale Russian air attacks. However, constant enemy activity means Ukrainian defenders must stay vigilant around the clock. It is also emphasized that the Ukrainian combat units are receiving new equipment and means to counter drones, which offers a chance to reduce damage and speed up recovery efforts on the front line. In general, the night of May 11 once again proved that Ukraine remains at the forefront of technological and combat efforts against the aggressor in the air. Honoring the memory of those defending the country, Ukrainian defenders continually improve their tactics and equipment to prevent new losses and mitigate the war’s consequences. In conditions of ongoing aggression, such coordinated resistance is extremely important for maintaining the country’s security and independence.