• Russia executed its largest drone attack against Ukraine, launching 355 drones in a single night.
• Ukrainian air defenses reportedly intercepted over 900 attack drones in just a few days.
• Donald Trump criticized Russian President Putin, labeling him as "absolutely CRAZY" for escalating attacks.
• The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant civilian casualties and increased military escalations.
• Negotiations for peace remain stalled as both sides continue large-scale aerial assaults.

In a drastic escalation of hostilities, Russia launched its largest drone attack against Ukraine, deploying a record 355 drones on the night of May 26 as part of a wider aerial offensive. This came after three consecutive nights of significant bombardments, with the previous day's attack also notable for including 298 drones and 69 missiles, targeting various Ukrainian cities. President Zelensky condemned the assaults, stating they highlight a complete disregard for military logic, emphasizing that they are underpinned by political objectives, particularly Russia's determination to expand its territory and influence, according to The Hill, Los Angeles Times, and Le Monde.

As the conflict continues, the extent of Ukrainian damage has been severe, with reports indicating over 20 casualties in recent attacks. Ukrainian officials state they have thwarted a significant number of these aerial threats, intercepting 900 drones in just three days, showcasing the intensity of the ongoing drone warfare that has become a pivotal aspect of the conflict since its onset in 2022. Ukrainian President Zelensky further asserted that this escalation reflects Russia's choice to continue its military aggression, as reported by Anadolu Agency and Al Jazeera.

The international response has also been notable; U.S. President Donald Trump condemned Putin's actions, indicating a shift in tone as he labeled the Russian leader's recent decisions as signs of a deranged state of mind. He expressed frustration with both Russia's actions and Zelensky's communications, asserting they are detrimental to Ukraine's interests, according to Reuters and India Times.

Moreover, Russia has positioned its recent drone and missile salvos as defensive measures in reaction to what it characterizes as Ukraine's provocations, emphasizing that their operations are a response to increased Ukrainian strikes on Russian civilian and military locations. This narrative plays into the broader theme of escalating hostilities as both nations prepare for potential continued offensives, as articulated by The Hill and Al Jazeera.