Russia attacks Ukraine with nearly 100 drones and two Kh-59/69 missiles

Russian forces launched a large-scale attack on Ukraine on the night of July 19-20, using two Kh-59/69 air-to-surface missiles and 94 drones of various types. The missiles were fired from temporarily occupied Crimea, while the drones were launched from the Russian cities of Kursk, Millerovo, and Oryol, as well as from occupied Donetsk and Hvardiiske in Crimea.

The attack involved Shahed (some jet-powered), Gerbera, and Italmas attack drones, Banderol loitering munitions, and Parodiya decoy drones. Ukrainian defense forces, including aircraft, anti-aircraft missile units, electronic warfare assets, unmanned systems units, and mobile fire groups, were involved in repelling the assault.

As of 08:00, Ukrainian air defense had destroyed or jammed 81 drones—including Shahed, Gerbera, Italmas, and other types—in the north, south, and east of the country. One missile and nine drones hit nine locations. One missile failed to reach its target. The attack is ongoing, with several enemy drones still in the airspace. Authorities urge citizens to observe safety measures.