Russia has increased its strikes with drones and long-range missiles against Ukraine last month, according to an analysis by Agence France-Presse, BTA reported.
AFP notes that the data was published against the backdrop of a freeze in peace talks and drone incursions into European airspace, for which Moscow was blamed.
The agency's analysis, which is based on reports from the Ukrainian Air Force, shows that in September Russia sent 5,638 drones and launched 185 long-range missiles against Ukraine, which is an increase of 36% compared to the previous month.
In August, these strikes decreased by 30% compared to July, which coincides with the intensification of diplomatic efforts to end the war. It was in mid-August that US President Donald Trump met with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin in Alaska. Before the talks, Trump had hoped for a fruitful dialogue, but in the end, this meeting did not lead to any progress, AFP notes. Nearly a month after the talks in Alaska, Russia announced a "pause" in peace talks with Kiev, while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that Moscow's goal remained the occupation of all of Ukraine.
In September, Russia launched a record number of drones - 810, over Ukraine on the night of September 6-7. This massive attack hit the government building in the center of the capital, Kiev.
The Ukrainian Air Force said that in September they had shot down or intercepted 87% of Russian drones and 68% of missiles during the night attacks. To this end, Ukraine has used fighter jets, helicopters, mobile air defense units, electronic equipment and new interceptor drones.
At the same time, Kiev has begun talks with NATO members to exchange experience in shooting down Russian drones. These talks were initiated after a series of incursions into the airspace of NATO countries. European countries have blamed Russia for the incidents, but Moscow denies involvement.
Vladimir Putin announced a three-day ceasefire with Ukraine until May 10, which coincided with a large military parade on Moscow's Red Square. Since then, Russia has attacked Ukraine every night without a break, AFP also notes.