In the dead of night, Kyiv lit up with explosions as Russia carried out one of its most intense air assaults since the conflict began. Close to 600 drones and 50 missiles were launched toward Ukraine, triggering sirens across multiple cities. Air defence units managed to destroy many of them, but several struck hospitals, residential areas and power stations. The strikes left entire neighbourhoods in darkness, claimed the life of a 12 year old girl and injured many more. These attacks came at the same time as the UN General Assembly session, where Moscow rejected allegations of targeting civilians. The pressing question remains, what was the motive behind this massive escalation?