Russia downs 61 Ukrainian drones overnight, rejects ceasefire

Moscow

Russia announced that it intercepted and destroyed 61 Ukrainian drones overnight across multiple regions. The Russian Defence Ministry reported on Friday that air defence units shot down drones between 8 pm and 7 am Moscow time. Key regions affected included Oryol (22 drones), Kursk (14), Belgorod (7), Voronezh (5), and Moscow (1).

Despite this large-scale drone attack, authorities in regions like Voronezh and Bryansk confirmed no injuries or damage. Local officials said response teams were assessing the situation.

Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, in an interview with Sky News, dismissed any plans for a ceasefire. “Now we have a strategic advantage. Why should we lose it? We’re going further,” he said, emphasizing continued Russian military advancement.

Peskov added that Russia would only consider a ceasefire if Ukraine halts foreign military support, arguing any pause would benefit Ukraine’s rearming efforts.

President Vladimir Putin also spoke about the war’s future at a press conference in St. Petersburg. He expressed readiness to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky — but only in a “final phase” of negotiations. However, he questioned Zelensky’s legitimacy and insisted any peace agreement must bear the signature of legitimate Ukrainian authorities.

Putin reiterated Russia’s goal: the demilitarisation of Ukraine to eliminate future threats. While expressing preference for a peaceful resolution, he warned that if talks fail, Russia would pursue its aims through military means.

Negotiations may resume after June 22, as both sides consider direct talks. Until then, Russia maintains its stance of military pressure alongside diplomatic posturing.