On the night of February 22-23, Russian forces launched a large-scale attack on Ukraine using an Iskander-M ballistic missile and 126 drones, primarily Shahed loitering munitions. The Ukrainian Air Force reported that by 08:00, defense forces had successfully intercepted 105 of these UAVs across various regions of the country, showcasing the effectiveness of their air defense capabilities amidst ongoing hostilities.

Despite the successful interception of many drones, the attack still resulted in hits on 20 locations within Ukraine, with significant aerial debris falling in one area. The engagement involved multiple units from Ukraine's defense forces, including aircraft, anti-aircraft missile systems, electronic warfare assets, and unmanned systems units, all working together to counter the threat posed by the Russian assault. Early reports indicated that the situation remained fluid, with several Russian drones potentially still active in Ukrainian airspace.

This incident underscores the continued volatility of the conflict in Ukraine and highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Ukrainian defense forces as they strive to protect their territory from a relentless barrage of aerial attacks. The use of a combination of ballistic missiles and numerous drones indicates a strategic approach by Russia to overwhelm Ukrainian defenses, further complicating the security situation in the region.