Russian drones attacked Ukraine: More than half destroyed, some hits reported
On the night of May 26 to 27, Ukrainians once again faced a large-scale wave of enemy drone attacks. According to official information from the Ukrainian Air Force, starting from 23:50 on May 26, there was a recorded launch of 60 kamikaze drones of the Shahed type and other small UAVs of various models across Ukrainian territory. This unprecedented nighttime attack posed serious challenges to Ukraine’s defenses. Overall, the majority of enemy drones—43 units—were destroyed by air defense measures, including anti-aircraft systems, aviation, and electronic warfare assets. Ukrainian units successfully intercepted most of the enemy aircraft in two regions—on the east, north, and south of the country—destroying them before they reached their targets. Specifically, the report emphasized: "As of 09:00 on May 27, 43 drones of various types have been neutralized by air defense, including 35 shot down by surface-to-air weapons, and 8 either jamming or destroyed by electronic warfare means." Although most drones were downed, there are known cases of direct hits on targets. According to Ukrainian defense sources, the attack was marked by hits on nine different locations. Additionally, debris of downed strike drones was found at three sites with the highest likelihood, indicating active efforts to counter the unmanned aggressor. The primary launching points for Russian drones were traditionally Russian cities, including Millerovo, Orel, Kursk, and Primorsko-Akhtarsk, as well as the temporarily occupied Crimea—specifically in Hvardiyiske, which is one of Russia’s operational centers in southern Ukraine. This demonstrates a systematic approach, with Russian forces attempting to destabilize the situation and cause damage to Ukrainian infrastructure and military sites. Ukraine’s air defenses operated with all available means. The Air Force, along with anti-aircraft missile units, electronic warfare detachments, and mobile fire groups of the Ukrainian Defense Forces, coordinated their actions effectively. They ensured the interception of most enemy drones, providing time and opportunity to reduce potential damage and destroy the invader at early stages—before reaching their targets. This nighttime attack is another indication of the increasing enemy efforts in using unmanned systems to strike Ukraine. Ukrainian defenders and the defense system demonstrate high readiness and capability to counter such threats, but they warn that the enemy continues attempts to destabilize the country, and Ukrainians must remain vigilant and prepared for any scenario. The Ministry of Defense and the command of the Ukrainian Air Force emphasize that each attack is a challenge to which Ukrainian troops respond as effectively as possible. At the same time, they call on Ukrainians to stay alert and follow safety recommendations during air raid alerts and attacks, as the fight against drones is a continuous and complex process requiring high mobility, endurance, and coordinated work of all defense structures in the country.