On February 12, 2026, Russia launched one of its most intensive aerial bombardments of the year against Ukraine, deploying a massive wave of 219 long-range drones and 24 ballistic missiles. This “combined attack” occurred just as international efforts for a peace summit were gaining momentum, a timing that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described as a deliberate attempt to undermine diplomacy.
The Scale of the Attack
The Ukrainian Air Force reported that the barrage lasted throughout Wednesday night into Thursday morning.
Drones: 219 long-range UAVs (primarily Shahed-type) were launched.
Missiles: 24 ballistic missiles (Iskander-M and S-300) and one air-launched Kh-59/69 missile were used.
Interceptions: Ukrainian air defenses managed to neutralize 213 of these targets, but several high-impact hits were recorded.
Primary Targets and Impact
The attacks specifically targeted Ukraine’s energy infrastructure during freezing temperatures, leading to widespread blackouts and loss of heating.
Kyiv (The Capital): Ballistic missile debris fell in residential areas, injuring at least two people and damaging high-rise buildings. Over 100,000 residents were left without power, and nearly 2,600 apartment buildings lost heating.
Odessa: Critical infrastructure and a local market were damaged. Approximately 300,000 people lost access to water and power.
Dnipro: Strikes wounded four people, including an infant and a four-year-old girl. Residential buildings and vehicles were severely damaged.
Kharkiv: Emergency power cuts were introduced following strikes. In one district, a man was hospitalized after jumping from a third-story window to escape a fire caused by a drone strike.
Zelensky’s Response and Diplomatic Context
President Zelensky stated that these attacks are Moscow’s “real response” to the U.S. proposal for a second round of peace talks (likely in Miami or Abu Dhabi). He noted that while Ukraine confirmed its participation, Russia is “hesitating” and using missiles to communicate its stance.
Ukraine’s Retaliation
On the same day, Ukraine responded with long-range strikes deep into Russian territory.
Ukhta Oil Refinery: A Ukrainian drone reportedly hit this refinery in the Komi Republic, nearly 1,750 km (1,087 miles) from the border.
Progress Plant (Tambov): A facility manufacturing aviation and missile components was struck, resulting in a large fire.
Read More: Diplomacy Under Fire Why Russia Struck Kyiv During New Peace Talk Proposals
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