Russia launched an unprecedented 188 strike drones into Ukraine from Monday night into Tuesday morning, escalating its prolonged offensive on Ukrainian infrastructure as winter conditions take hold.
Ukraine’s air force revealed on Telegram that it had successfully intercepted 76 drones. Another 95 were reportedly neutralized mid-flight, likely due to electronic interference, while five strayed into Belarusian territory.
Additionally, four Iskander-M ballistic missiles were fired by Russia during the operation, none of which were intercepted, according to Ukrainian forces.
“Regrettably, vital infrastructure has been impacted, and several regions have seen damage to private homes and apartment complexes as a result of the large-scale UAV assault,” the air force stated.
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This latest offensive signals a marked intensification in Russia’s drone and missile campaigns against Ukraine, with both the frequency and magnitude of attacks surging in recent weeks.
The prior record for drone strikes, set on November 10, involved 145 drones.
As in previous cold seasons, Russia has targeted Ukraine’s critical energy systems, seeking to plunge the population into darkness and cold during the harsh winter months.
Temperatures have already fallen below freezing in Ukraine and are expected to remain severe until early spring.
Monday night’s drone strikes caused damage to energy facilities in the western city of Ternopil, according to Serhii Nadal, the head of the local regional defense administration, who made the announcement on Telegram.
In a separate statement, Russia’s Defense Ministry reported downing at least 39 Ukrainian drones across various regions of Russia on Monday night.
The ministry claimed there were no casualties or damages resulting from the incidents.
(ABC NEWS)
NIGERIAN TRIBUNE
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