Russia launched nearly 400 long-range drones along with cruise and ballistic missiles in a sweeping overnight assault on Ukraine, killing four people and injuring at least 27. The strikes hit at least 10 locations across the country and continued into daylight, targeting the capital, Kyiv, in one of the largest attacks in recent weeks.

Ukrainian military officials said Russian forces are intensifying efforts along the roughly 1,250-kilometer front line, attempting to break through defensive positions in several strategic areas. Fierce fighting has unfolded across eastern and southern regions, with hundreds of assaults reported over the past several days as Moscow moves additional troops and heavy equipment forward.

Analysts say the escalation signals the start of a long-anticipated spring and summer offensive. Despite years of grinding warfare and Russia occupying about 20 percent of Ukraine, including the Crimean Peninsula seized in 2014, Moscow has struggled to achieve major territorial breakthroughs.

Amid the renewed offensive, Ukraine is relying heavily on advanced drone technology to offset troop shortages and is seeking additional air defense support from international partners. Ukrainian forces have also continued long-range drone strikes against targets inside Russia linked to the war effort.