Putin's Fury as Russia Launches Record 8,150 Drones at Ukraine

Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia – Russia launched a record number of long-range drones at Ukraine in May, firing 8,150 units last month. This was revealed by AFP calculations on Monday, 1 June 2026, marking a 24% increase from April. The record attack followed a three-day ceasefire that raised hopes for broader peace efforts, though Kyiv and Moscow have accused each other of violations and escalated long-range strikes. In the same report, Russia also fired 211 missiles in May, one of the highest monthly figures, as Ukraine urgently sought US assistance for Patriot missile defence ammunition. The May missile strikes included some of the worst attacks on Ukraine’s capital in recent months, hitting a residential building and killing two dozen people. Moscow also deployed the nuclear-capable Oreshnik ballistic missile for the third time against its neighbour. Kyiv intercepted approximately 91% of all incoming drones and missiles in May, according to air force data, highlighting Ukraine’s success in countering drones but continued reliance on Western allies for missile defence. Ukrainian officials have repeatedly warned of dwindling anti-missile systems and ammunition supplies, with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy urgently requesting direct assistance from US President Donald Trump to counter Russian missiles. Ukraine’s weapons shortfall has worsened due to the Middle East conflict, with US allies expending significant air defence ammunition in the Gulf. Trump returned to the White House last year vowing to swiftly end the Ukraine war, but talks have stalled over Russian territorial demands.