Russia launched over 1,800 drones on Ukraine in one week - Zelensky

In the past week, Russia launched over 1,800 drones, more than 1,200 glide bombs, and 83 missiles of various types on Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelensky reported on July 13. The most intense attack occurred on July 9, when Russian forces used 728 Shahed-type drones and decoys, along with seven cruise missiles and six Kinzhal ballistic missiles — the largest drone assault of the full-scale war so far.

Zelensky said the escalation aims to overwhelm Ukrainian air defenses, especially around key cities like Kyiv, and terrorize civilians. He praised the effectiveness of Ukraine’s air defense systems and interceptor drones, noting that hundreds of Russian-Iranian drones were downed this week.

The president added that he has been discussing ways to expand drone production and capabilities with Ukraine’s international partners, and expects decisive support from the U.S., Europe, the G7, and others.

His comments come as U.S. President Donald Trump announced plans to make a major statement on Russia next week, expressing disappointment with Moscow’s recent actions. Ukrainian officials have warned that Russia’s drone use could rise to over 1,000 per day if escalation continues.

Russian drone attack destroys school in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast

A nighttime Russian drone attack on the town of Mezhova in the Synelnykove district of Dnipropetrovsk Oblast caused a fire that destroyed the roof and first floor of an educational institution. The fire, which spread across 800 square meters, was extinguished by 14 firefighters. The building was completely destroyed.

In the same area, a 37-year-old man was injured. Russian forces used guided aerial bombs, drones, and multiple-launch rocket systems in the attack, sparking several fires.

Wheat fields, dry grassland, and a farm building caught fire. A lyceum was partially destroyed, and damage was reported to a private house and company premises. Two combine harvesters and several cars were also affected.

Russian drone hits critical infrastructure in Sumy, leaving part of the city without power

A Russian drone strike hit a critical infrastructure facility in Sumy on July 13, leaving part of the city without electricity. According to Oleh Hryhorov, Head of the Sumy Oblast Military Administration, Russian UAVs were active over and near the city throughout the day. One drone successfully struck a key facility, disrupting power supply.

As a result, several essential institutions in Sumy switched to backup power. Emergency teams are currently working to address the consequences of the attack.