Zelensky says Russia launched more than 850 Shahed drones as Ukraine's defense capabilities faced artificial restrictions

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Russia launched more than 850 Shahed drones against Ukraine from the start of Wednesday through 9 a.m. Thursday, with attacks continuing in waves throughout the period.

He said the barrage came "precisely at a time when the speed of our defensive capabilities is being artificially restricted," referring to recent limitations affecting satellite communications used by Ukrainian forces.

Zelensky said Russia had deliberately intensified its attacks after receiving sanctions relief and seeing increased pressure on Ukraine. "Russia uses every such moment and must be held accountable for what it does," he said.

At least six people were killed in the latest attacks, including three in Kropyvnytskyi and three in the Dnipropetrovsk region. Strikes were also reported in Kyiv and 14 other Ukrainian regions.

Zelensky called for stronger and more consistent support, particularly for Ukraine's air defenses. "We need honesty from our partners about this war," he said, adding that people in the United States should stand with efforts to protect lives, end the war and guarantee security rather than with "the aggressor."

The latest barrage comes amid worsening tensions between Kyiv and Washington over restrictions on Starshield-linked capabilities, intelligence sharing and U.S. pressure on Ukraine to halt strikes on Russian energy infrastructure.