Russia's Defense Ministry reports that air defenses shot down 347 Ukrainian drones overnight. This major attack comes after Moscow rejected Kyiv's ceasefire earlier in the week. Drones were destroyed in over 20 Russian regions, including Moscow. The attack is Ukraine's second-biggest aerial assault since Russia's invasion over four years ago. It occurred ahead of Russia's Victory Day celebrations, marking the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II. Tensions have risen as the celebrations approach, with Russia scaling back its traditional military parade due to security concerns. Authorities blame Ukraine for the heightened security measures.

Slovak authorities charged a man with attempting to assassinate Prime Minister Robert Fico, saying he acted alone in a politically motivated attack that left the longtime leader in serious but stable condition. Fico's pro-Russia views have contributed to deep divisions in the small European country that borders Ukraine. The shooting attack Wednesday shocked the nation and reverberated across the continent weeks ahead of elections for the European Parliament. Slovakia's current president and its president-elect urged people to dial back the sharp rhetoric that has characterized the country's political debate. But some Fico allies took aim at Slovakia's media for contributing to polarization.