Russia launched its largest drone assault on Ukraine since the war began, striking a military airfield in the country's west, Ukraine’s air force reported on Monday (June 9). The base was one of the primary targets during the overnight attack. This latest assault follows Ukraine’s recent drone strikes on Russian airbases, which destroyed several Russian bombers. In response, Russia unleashed a wave of drones and missiles—Ukraine’s air defense claimed to have shot down 460 of 479 drones and 19 of 20 missiles.

According to air force spokesperson Yuriy Ihnat, the primary focus was an operational airfield near Ukraine's western border. He confirmed there were hits but didn’t provide details on the damage. Regional officials identified the airfield as being in Dubno, roughly 60 km from the Polish border. In response, Poland scrambled its own and allied aircraft to secure its airspace early Monday, according to the Polish armed forces.

Russia’s Defense Ministry said the operation was in retaliation for Kyiv’s earlier attacks on Russian bases, and claimed that all intended targets were successfully hit. The conflict, now in its fourth year, continues to intensify, with peace talks stalled and both nations standing firm. Ukraine is demanding an unconditional ceasefire, a condition Russia continues to reject.