Full Breakdown
Russia’s Massive Drone and Missile Barrage Hits Dnipro and Other Ukrainian Cities
4/26/2026, 4:52:34 AM
The Night of the Assault
On the night of 25 April 2024, Russian forces launched more than 600 Shahed-type drones and 47 missiles against Ukraine. The strikes hit the southeastern city of Dnipro, the northern city of Chernihiv, and also Odesa and Kharkiv. In Dnipro, an apartment block collapsed after repeated hits; in Chernihiv a civilian utility building was struck.
Key Numbers
- Drones launched: 619 (Reuters) / >600 (other sources)
- Missiles launched: 47 (Reuters) / >660 (other sources)
- Ukrainian interceptions: 580 drones, 30 missiles
- Reported casualties: 7–10 deaths, 30–49 injured across Dnipro, Chernihiv and other regions
Ground Impact
Rescue crews used heavy machinery to lift concrete slabs from the collapsed Dnipro apartment block, searching for survivors into the morning. Governor Oleksandr Hanzha confirmed four bodies recovered.
Official Statements & Responses
- President Volodymyr Zelensky said the attack lasted “practically all night” and urged partners to strengthen air-defence.
- The Russian Ministry of Defence claimed 127 drones were shot down and announced control of Bochkove.
- The UK Ministry of Defence reported detection of Russian drones near Romania, denied any engagement, and a NATO official said British jets had the authority to engage but that engagement was unnecessary because the targets were neutralised outside Romanian airspace.
Criticism & Opposition
Ukrainian officials, including Governor Hanzha and Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko, described the strikes as deliberate terror against civilians.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Casualty figures differ (seven to ten deaths, 30-49 injured). Independent observers have not verified the Russian claim of seizing Bochkove. Initial reports of British jets shooting down drones were later denied by the UK and Romania.
Why It Matters
The attack underscores Ukraine’s dependence on Western air-defence systems and Russia’s use of low-cost drones, while damage to infrastructure threatens wheat and fertilizer exports.
What’s Next
Zelensky met Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to discuss air-defence cooperation; NATO is reviewing airspace engagement rules as peace talks stall.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Every strike like this must remind our partners that the situation needs immediate and firm action, rapid strengthening of our air defences,” — President Volodymyr Zelensky, President of Ukraine
- “They hit with missiles and drones. They hit deliberately. They hit residential areas.” — Oleksandr Hanzha, Governor of Dnipro region
- “May their children sleep in their warm beds in Russia, and may everything be all right for them. Let them watch as Russia ’liberates’ us of our apartments and houses,” — Aliona Katrushova, Dnipro resident
- “A Nato official said British Typhoon jets "had the authority to engage the potential threats", but "engagement was not required as the targets were neutralised outside Romanian airspace".” — NATO official
