Ukraine Launches Major Drone Strikes Against Key Russian Targets
In a significant escalation of conflict, Ukraine carried out extensive drone strikes against multiple strategic targets within Russia during the night. According to Andrii Kovalenko, the head of the Center for Countering Disinformation of Ukraine's National Security and Defense Council, these attacks specifically targeted a critical oil refinery and a fuel depot in the Ryazan region, as well as an electronic components factory for missiles in Bryansk. Kovalenko described the refinery in Ryazan as one of the most vital assets in the Russian oil industry, crucial for both civilian use and military operations, supplying fuels necessary for Russian aircraft, tanks, ships, and more.
The Kremni factory in Bryansk, which specializes in producing microchips essential for missiles and drones, was also targeted. Kovalenko highlighted that this facility had previously been struck by Ukrainian forces, indicating a sustained effort to disrupt Russian military supply chains.
In total, the operation involved an impressive over 120 drones launched towards Russian territory, marking the largest air raid since the beginning of the year, as reported by the Russian Defense Ministry on its Telegram channel. Russian air defenses managed to shoot down 123 drones across thirteen regions, including Moscow. The city's mayor, Sergei Sobyanin, confirmed the interception of several drones in the suburbs and stated that no casualties or damages were reported from these incidents.
The drone onslaught prompted a temporary halt in operations at three airports in the Russian capital and similar measures at other airports in cities such as Kazan, Nizhnekamsk, Penza, Samara, Saratov, and Ufa. The Defense Ministry's report indicated that the Bryansk region bore the brunt of the drone activity, with 37 drones shot down there, reflecting the ongoing tension and volatility in the region, which borders Ukraine.
As the conflict continues to evolve, Ukraine appears committed to striking at Russian military capabilities, aiming to undermine its supply lines and overall operational effectiveness. The results of this latest round of strikes could have significant implications for the duration and intensity of the ongoing conflict.
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