Key facts
- Russia launched over 2,000 attack drones at Ukraine in the past week, according to President Volodymyr Zelensky.
- The drones were described as jet-powered and capable of reaching 600 kilometers per hour.
- Russian forces also launched 1,700 air bombs and 19 missiles.
- Strikes hit monasteries, critical infrastructure, businesses, and residential buildings.
- Zelensky approved new long-range operations on September 19.
- Ukraine launched its largest drone and missile attack ever on September 20.
Russia launched more than 2,000 attack drones at Ukraine over the past week, President Volodymyr Zelensky said on September 20. He described the drones as jet-powered and capable of reaching speeds of 600 kilometers per hour (nearly 370 miles per hour). In addition to the drones, Russian forces deployed 1,700 air bombs and 19 missiles of various types.
Zelensky stated that Ukraine is continuously defending itself against these attacks, which have impacted monasteries, critical infrastructure, businesses, and residential buildings. The increased bombardment comes as Moscow shifts to near-hourly drone attacks while continuing large-scale strikes, exploiting Kyiv's shortage of air defense missiles and systems. The UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine reported that 372 civilians were killed and 2,349 injured in August, the second-highest monthly figure for 2026.
In response, Zelensky announced on September 19 that he had approved new long-range operations, though specifics were not provided. He also noted Ukraine's capability to strike over 3,000 kilometers inside Russia. On September 20, Ukraine conducted its largest drone and missile attack to date, causing a significant fire in Moscow during Russia's parliamentary elections. Zelensky continues to advocate for international support, urging partners to impose new sanctions on Russia and push for peace through strength. The U.S. State Department announced on September 20 its approval of a $2.7 billion sale of air defense systems to Ukraine, including S-300 Clone and GAM-67 missiles. Zelensky also stated he would meet with U.S. President Donald Trump in New York City during the UN General Assembly.