The latest air assaults on Ukraine have raised concerns over intensified military aggression and geopolitical tensions.
Russia Strikes Ukraine with Record Air Assault Following Trump-Putin Call

Russia Strikes Ukraine with Record Air Assault Following Trump-Putin Call
An unprecedented wave of drone and missile attacks hits Ukrainian cities shortly after diplomatic talks.
On July 4, 2025, Russia launched its most extensive drone and missile attack on Ukraine, according to the country's air force, hitting Kyiv and multiple cities. This barrage came merely hours after a phone call between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. During the early hours, Kyiv was enveloped in smoke from flaring fires, although initial reports indicated minimal destruction, with damage confined largely to residential areas across five neighborhoods.
In recent months, Russia has significantly escalated its drone campaign, conducting near-weekly attacks that involve a mix of explosive drones, cruise missiles, ballistic missiles, and various decoys to outmaneuver Ukraine's defenses. The Trump-Putin conversation took place just before air raid sirens were activated in Kyiv, with Trump subsequently telling reporters he felt he achieved “no progress” with Putin amid ongoing hostilities. This call marked the sixth time the two leaders have spoken within the current year, underscoring the increasing frequency of such discussions in light of the war.
The assault on Friday was noteworthy as it followed a recent announcement from the Trump administration regarding a pause on sending certain air defense systems and weaponry previously pledged to Ukraine. These crucial military supplies had been anticipated to arrive over the coming weeks or months, fueling further speculations about the operational shifts in the region. The cumulative effect of these developments continues to heighten anxieties regarding the state of the conflict and the broader international implications.
In recent months, Russia has significantly escalated its drone campaign, conducting near-weekly attacks that involve a mix of explosive drones, cruise missiles, ballistic missiles, and various decoys to outmaneuver Ukraine's defenses. The Trump-Putin conversation took place just before air raid sirens were activated in Kyiv, with Trump subsequently telling reporters he felt he achieved “no progress” with Putin amid ongoing hostilities. This call marked the sixth time the two leaders have spoken within the current year, underscoring the increasing frequency of such discussions in light of the war.
The assault on Friday was noteworthy as it followed a recent announcement from the Trump administration regarding a pause on sending certain air defense systems and weaponry previously pledged to Ukraine. These crucial military supplies had been anticipated to arrive over the coming weeks or months, fueling further speculations about the operational shifts in the region. The cumulative effect of these developments continues to heighten anxieties regarding the state of the conflict and the broader international implications.