Russia Unleashes Massive Air Assault on Ukraine: 127 Missiles and 109 Drones Deployed
Russia Launches Largest Air Attack on Ukraine, Black Sea Fleet Remains a Threat
In a significant escalation of the ongoing conflict, Russia carried out its most extensive air assault on Ukraine to date on Monday. The attack, which included a barrage of missiles and drones, targeted critical infrastructure and various sites across the country.
Ukraine’s air force reported detecting 127 missiles and 109 drones launched by Russian forces. Among these, 28 Kalibr cruise missiles were fired from Russian naval vessels in the Black Sea, demonstrating that despite heavy losses, Russia’s Black Sea Fleet remains a formidable threat.
Ukrainian officials claim to have successfully intercepted 102 missiles and 99 drones during the attack. However, the assault still resulted in at least seven fatalities and dozens of injuries. Emergency services were deployed to respond to fires and damage caused by missile strikes in multiple locations.
The scale of the attack highlights the continued capabilities of the Black Sea Fleet, even as Ukraine reports significant damage to Russian naval assets in recent months. Ukrainian forces have employed naval drones and anti-ship missiles in asymmetrical warfare tactics, claiming to have sunk or destroyed several Russian vessels.
In response to these threats, the Russian Black Sea Fleet has reportedly dispersed from its headquarters in Crimea to the eastern region closer to Russia. Recent sightings of three Russian cruise missile submarines in the Black Sea further underscore the ongoing naval presence in the region.
The assault involved a wide array of weapons, with Russia launching ballistic and cruise missiles from various platforms, including strategic bombers and fighter-bombers. Ukraine’s Lt. Gen. Mykola Oleshchuk stated that all available weapons and equipment were utilized to repel the attack.
International response to the incident has been swift. The United States, focusing on providing Ukraine with critical air-defense systems and interceptor missiles, praised Ukraine’s air-defense performance. John Kirby, a U.S. National Security Council spokesperson, emphasized the need for continued support to Ukraine in the face of such aggression.
As the conflict continues to escalate, this latest attack serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing threats faced by Ukraine and the critical importance of international support in bolstering its defensive capabilities.
