KYIV – Exciting developments unfolded over the skies of Russia as over 100 Ukrainian drones were shot down on Sunday, creating chaos and destruction in one of the largest confrontations since Moscow invaded Ukraine in February 2022.

Russia’s Ministry of Defense confirmed that 125 drones were shot down overnight across seven regions, with Volgograd facing the most intense attacks, resulting in the destruction of 67 Ukrainian drones. The southwestern region’s defense systems were put to the test.

Damage was not limited to the drones themselves. In Russia’s Voronezh region, falling debris from the downed drones caused a fire in an apartment block, creating a dramatic scene but fortunately with no reported casualties. Similar incidents occurred in Russia’s Rostov region, where a wildfire was ignited by debris from 18 downed drones.

The intensity of the conflict increased further as 13 civilians were injured in attacks on Zaporizhzhia, a city in southern Ukraine. The attacks left a high-rise building and several residential homes damaged as Russian guide bombs struck the area. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed concern over the impact on the city’s infrastructure.

The situation remains volatile, with Ukrainian military leaders warning of a possible offensive in the Zaporizhzhia region. Reports of Russian forces amassing in the area have heightened tensions, prompting defensive actions from Ukraine.

Amidst these clashes, Ukraine’s air force reported the launch of 22 Russian drones over its territory, resulting in confrontations that spanned multiple regions. The ongoing conflict underscores the severity of the situation and the urgent need for diplomatic solutions.

For the latest updates on the Ukraine-Russia conflict, follow AP’s coverage here.