Russia's Drone Warfare: Unilateral Ceasefire Ignored Amid Ongoing Conflict

Russia launched a significant drone assault on Ukraine overnight, defying Kyiv's self-declared ceasefire that started at midnight, say Ukrainian authorities. The Russian Defense Ministry alleged Kyiv's non-compliance, citing the interception of 53 Ukrainian drones over Russian territories and nearby regions.

No signs of Moscow honoring Ukraine's ceasefire emerged, as the war enters its fifth year. Diplomatic efforts led by the US to halt the conflict have stalled. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy initiated the ceasefire after Russia's planned ceasefire to observe World War II's Nazi Germany defeat, set to begin later this week.

Despite calls for a ceasefire, Russian attacks are ongoing, leading to numerous casualties. Ukraine accuses Russia of insincerity over brief unilateral ceasefires coinciding with holidays, urging heightened international sanctions and support against Moscow.

(With inputs from agencies.)