In a night-time offensive Russian forces unleashed a barrage of 56 drones and a missile targeting Ukraines energy infrastructure. The southern region of Mykolaiv bore the brunt of the attack resulting in power outages for some residents (governor Vitaliy Kim reported no casualties)
Ukrainian air defenses were put to the test‚ successfully downing 22 drones. However 27 drones vanished from radar possibly landing in Ukrainian territory due to electronic warfare measures. Two additional drones veered off course towards Belarus
The assault left its mark on several regions:
- Kyiv: drone debris landed on kindergarten property
- Sumy: administrative building caught fire‚ two vehicles damaged
- Areas near the front line: five infrastructure facilities hit
Vitali Klitschko Kyivs mayor stated that the capital and its surrounding areas escaped without damage to critical infrastructure or loss of life
This attack is part of a pattern – Russian forces have been striking vital infrastructure as winter approaches. In response Ukrainian leadership has stepped up its requests for enhanced air defense systems from its allies
Russia maintains its stance of not targeting civilians despite the conflicts toll. The war which began roughly two and a half years ago has resulted in thousands of deaths