UK defense chief says Russia has Shahed drones to last at least year
Photo: UK Defense Secretary John Healey (Getty Images)
The United Kingdom has stated that Russia is launching hundreds of drones at Ukraine every day. This level of intense pressure could continue for years, as Putin shows no sign of seeking peace, according to a statement from newly appointed UK Defense Secretary John Healey during his visit to Kyiv.
Russia is launching approximately 300 drones per day against Ukraine, and according to the UK Ministry of Defence, this pace could be sustained throughout the year.
Destruction over peace: UK outlines what Putin really wants
British defense officials describe this strategy as a marathon of destruction rather than any real pursuit of peace. The UK assesses that the mass use of drones marks a new phase in the war, with the Kremlin relying on relentless terror tactics to wear down Ukraine. London views this approach as clear evidence that the Russian leadership is not seeking an end to the war but is instead focused on inflicting death, destruction, and destabilization.
What Russia's mass drone attacks mean for Ukraine and its allies
This high-intensity drone campaign poses serious challenges for Ukraine and its partners. The scale of the attacks complicates the defense of cities, critical energy infrastructure, and military positions. The UK Defense Secretary emphasized that this shift requires a response from allies, particularly in terms of air defense systems and ammunition supplies.
He also underlined the need for long-term support, not only militarily but also technologically, so that Ukraine can effectively counter this evolving form of hybrid warfare.
UK stance: Kyiv can count on steady support
During his visit to Ukraine, the British Defense Secretary reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to standing with Kyiv. He stated that British support would remain steady, long-term, and determined. He also stressed that Ukraine has the right under international law to strike legitimate military targets on Russian territory.
The UK sees the war not merely as a conflict between Russia and Ukraine, but as a broader war against the rules-based international order.
On June 4, Russian forces used 1,074 kamikaze drones and carried out 3,603 attacks along the front line, targeting Ukrainian positions and civilian areas.
Meanwhile, the US Embassy in Ukraine reiterated the ongoing risk of major Russian air attacks, warning that a large-scale assault could happen at any time in the coming days.
As a reminder, on June 1, Ukraine's Security Service (SBU) carried out a drone strike on multiple Russian airfields. SBU chief Vasyl Malyuk later confirmed that 41 Russian aircraft were hit, mostly strategic bombers. The drones struck four military bases: Belaya, Dyagilevo, Olenya, and Ivanovo.
