Ukrainian air defences intercepted 32 of the 35 exploding drones launched by Russia, revealing gaps in the country’s air protection after 16 months of war. The attack primarily targeted the Kyiv region, with approximately two dozen drones shot down. The bombardment extended to the Lviv region due to limited air defence coverage.
Ukrainian air force spokesman Yuriy Ihnat attributed the drones’ penetration to the lack of comprehensive air defence assets across Ukraine. A critical infrastructure facility in Lviv was hit, causing a fire. Russian ballistic missiles also struck the southern Zaporizhzhia region. Ukraine has reinforced its air defences with advanced weaponry from Western allies, resulting in a higher success rate against enemy drones and missiles.
The recent assaults coincided with Ukraine’s counter-offensive against Russia’s occupation since February 2022. The counter-offensive faces challenges of mined terrain and reinforced defences. Heavy battles are concentrated in eastern Ukraine, particularly around Bakhmut, Lyman, Avdiivka, and Marinka, resulting in civilian casualties.
Russia relocated troops after the Kakhovka Dam collapse prevented Ukraine from launching an offensive in the Kherson region. This allowed Russia to concentrate its forces in the Zaporizhzhia and Donetsk regions. Ukrainian military analyst Roman Svitan stated that the Zaporizhzhia region is the focus of the counter-offensive, aiming to break Russia’s land corridor to Crimea.
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Additionally, Russia’s SVR invited Ukrainian diplomats stationed abroad to seek refuge in Russia, alleging their reluctance to return home. Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu claimed Ukraine plans to use U.S.-made HIMARS and U.K.-provided Storm Shadow missiles to attack Russian territory, including Crimea. However, no evidence was presented to support this allegation.