Russia unleashed a massive daytime attack on Ukraine with over 500 drones and missiles, paralyzing daily life. Zelensky assesses the situation at the front as complex but optimal after thwarting a Russian offensive. Kyiv retaliated by striking a refinery in Ufa.
Russia has escalated its attacks on Ukraine with over 500 drones and missiles launched on Friday, April 3, 2026, saturating the daytime airspace. This massive attack follows a Russian nighttime barrage since Thursday evening. The Ukrainian Air Force intercepted a large number of projectiles, but impacts were reported in several regions. One person was killed and 25 injured in the Kharkiv region, while Ukraine struck a refinery in Ufa, Russia.
The Ukrainian Air Force reported more than 400 long-range drones and ten ballistic missiles launched in 24 hours, targeting border areas. “We observe that the enemy is using new routes, constantly upgrading drones, and new tactics,” said Ukrainian Air Force spokesperson Yourii Ihnat on state television. He compared this wave of bombings to the attacks faced by Ukraine on Tuesday, which resulted in at least four casualties. Over 300 drones in a nighttime barrage were followed by a similar-sized salvo in the middle of the day. These air raids disrupted daily life by forcing administrative services, businesses, and public transport to suspend operations. “The enemy is putting pressure on our population by paralyzing the functioning of certain institutions and educational establishments,” said Yourii Ihnat.
Situation at the front “complex but the best in ten months”
Volodymyr Zelensky described the situation at the front as “complex but the best in ten months” after thwarting a Russian offensive planned in March. The Ukrainian president relied on Ukrainian and British intelligence to affirm that the front line is generally holding, despite Russian intensification post-failed offensive. In Kharkiv, four ballistic missiles hit the city at night, injuring one person, according to Governor Oleh Synehoubov.
Ukraine announced a strike on a refinery in Ufa, 1,400 km from the border, confirmed by Russian sources as a fire without casualties. TASS reported the crash of a Su-30 in Crimea during training, with the pilots safe. Zelensky invited American negotiators to Kyiv, receiving “positive signals” in response.
