Just hours after a temporary ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia expired, Ukrainian officials have reported a fresh wave of Russian drone attacks targeting multiple regions across the country. The renewed assault marks a significant escalation in hostilities following the end of what was described as a fragile and short-lived truce over the Orthodox Easter weekend. According to Ukraine’s Air Force, dozens of Iranian-made Shahed drones were launched by Russian forces overnight, with many aimed at critical infrastructure and civilian areas.

The Ukrainian military claims to have successfully intercepted a majority of the drones, but several still managed to hit targets, causing damage and injuries in Kharkiv, Dnipro, and Odesa. Local authorities reported fires, power outages, and at least five civilians injured in the latest attacks. Emergency crews have been working since early morning to extinguish blazes and restore services. “The enemy wasted no time once the ceasefire ended,” said Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense. “Their objective remains terror and destruction.”

The temporary truce, which was brokered for the Orthodox Christian holiday, had been observed unevenly, with both sides accusing each other of violations. However, the intensity of attacks surged immediately after it officially ended, raising fears of a broader military escalation as spring advances. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the renewed strikes in his nightly address, calling them a “cowardly return to violence.” He emphasized Ukraine’s continued resistance and called for international partners to step up air defense support.

Meanwhile, Russia has not officially commented on the latest drone operations but has repeatedly stated its commitment to continuing its “special military operation” until its objectives are met. Russian state media framed the post-truce attacks as a response to Ukrainian military movements near contested zones. Military analysts believe the end of the truce signals a renewed offensive phase in the ongoing war, with both sides regrouping and rearming after months of winter stalemates. Drone warfare has become a central element of the conflict, offering low-cost, high-impact options for long-range strikes and psychological warfare. As the conflict enters another intense chapter, civilians in frontline areas brace for more air raid sirens and sleepless nights.