Russia launches more than 70 jet-powered drones at Ukraine: How many were shot down
Photo: Mobile air defense unit (Getty Images)
Today, Russian forces launched more than 70 jet-powered drones at Ukraine. The main target area was the Kyiv region, according to the Ukrainian Air Force.
"On August 18, 2026, during the daytime (from 7:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.), the enemy attacked Ukraine with 76 Shahed-type jet-powered UAVs. The main direction of the attack was the Kyiv region," the military said.
According to preliminary data, Ukrainian air defenses managed to shoot down or suppress more than 70 Russian jet-powered drones. At the same time, enemy drone impacts and falling debris were recorded in several locations. Information about the damage is still being clarified.
"After 6:30 p.m., more than 20 additional jet-powered UAVs entered Ukrainian airspace. Combat operations are ongoing, so please follow safety rules," the Air Force said.
Russian attacks on August 18
Earlier today, explosions were heard in Kyiv amid a jet drone attack. In Kyiv’s Dniprovskyi district, debris from an enemy drone fell in the yard of a five-story residential building.
Russian drones also attacked the Kyiv region on August 18. Brovary Mayor Ihor Sapozhko reported damage to civilian facilities and fires at three locations.
It was later reported that one of the targets was a distribution center for the EVA chain of stores and the EVA.UA online store in Brovary.
In addition, Russian forces launched missile strikes on the town of Pechenihy in the Kharkiv region on August 18. According to the latest information, 10 people were killed in the attack.
