The Russian Defence Ministry reported that over 100 Ukrainian drones were intercepted over Russia and occupied Crimea, as a Ukrainian drone was reportedly targeted and destroyed in the Kursk region. An ammunition depot and missile arsenal in southwestern Russia caught fire in an attack in the Krasnodar region, leading to evacuations after a series of explosions. Videos on social media captured bright orange clouds rising with detonations sounding almost continuously. The Defence Ministry also claimed to have shot down 101 Ukrainian drones overnight with no immediate reports of casualties. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is set to present a ‘victory plan’ to the United States, demanding quick action and long-range striking capabilities to serve as the basis for future negotiations with Russia.
Russian forces targeted Ukrainian cities Kharkiv and Dnipro on Friday evening, with a Su-34 aircraft launching three guided aerial bombs from Belgorod into Kharkiv. Reports indicate that enemy bombs hit a private house, a road near the hospital, and the grounds of an enterprise. The Mayor of Kharkiv reported an increase in the number of victims to 15, with most in moderate condition and several hospitalised. In Dnipro, a rocket attack destroyed several homes, damaging roofs, windows, and apartments. Volunteers are distributing building materials to aid in repairing the damages caused by the attack.
Zelenskyy’s ‘victory plan’ to be presented to President Biden includes the need for long-range capabilities and other weapons sought by Ukraine to address the ongoing conflict with Russia. The delay in allowing the use of long-range missiles by Western partners may lead to their tactical obsolescence, according to Zelenskyy. He highlighted the importance of quick action by the US given the current situation, emphasizing the need for support in striking deep into Russian territory. US reluctance to provide these capabilities stems from concerns over escalation with Moscow, a major global nuclear power.
The ongoing attacks by Russian forces on Ukrainian cities have resulted in significant damage and casualties, with reports of destroyed homes and injured residents in Kharkiv and Dnipro. The use of aerial bombs and rocket attacks has raised concerns about civilian safety and the extent of destruction caused by the conflict. Volunteers are working to provide assistance to those affected by the attacks, distributing building materials to aid in repairs and restore damaged properties. The escalation of violence in these cities underscores the urgent need for international support and intervention to address the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Ukraine.
The Defence Ministry’s claims of intercepting Ukrainian drones over Russian territory and occupied Crimea highlight the ongoing air conflict between the two countries, with reports of drones being targeted and destroyed on both sides. The attack on an ammunition depot and missile arsenal in southwestern Russia has triggered evacuations and caused significant damage, underscoring the impact of the conflict on infrastructure and civilian populations. The Defence Ministry’s response to the attacks signals Russia’s commitment to defending its territory and targeting perceived threats, further escalating tensions in the region. The ongoing air and missile strikes underscore the need for diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the conflict and prevent further loss of life and destruction in the affected areas.
