Russia launches major air assault on Kyiv with drones and missiles
PTC News Desk: On Monday morning, the sound of explosions echoed through central Kyiv during rush hour as Ukraine's military warned of a large-scale missile and drone attack by Russia. This came after waves of drone attacks earlier in the morning, intensifying the ongoing conflict between the two nations.
Ukraine’s air force announced that Russia had deployed 11 TU-95 strategic bombers and confirmed the launch of several missiles. Outside Kyiv, Reuters journalists reported hearing air defense systems actively engaging incoming targets.
Further reports from local authorities indicated that explosions occurred in the northwestern city of Lutsk, where an apartment block was damaged. Authorities are currently verifying reports of possible casualties.
In response to the attacks, the Operational Command of the Polish armed forces stated on X (formerly Twitter) that Polish and allied aircraft had been mobilized. The Russian attack targeted several regions in western Ukraine, including areas near the Polish border, raising concerns over the proximity of the conflict to NATO territories.
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There had been growing expectations of a major Russian missile strike for some time. Last week, the U.S. embassy in Ukraine issued a warning about an increased risk of attacks around Ukrainian Independence Day, which was observed on Saturday.
In a counteroffensive, Ukraine has intensified its own long-range drone strikes against Russian targets, aiming to retaliate against Moscow, which initiated a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Andriy Yermak, the chief of staff to President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, expressed a resolve to retaliate, stating on Telegram, "The desire to destroy our energy will cost the Russians dearly: their infrastructure."
Earlier on Monday, Ukraine's military reported that Russia launched two waves of drone attacks. Initial reports indicated no damage or casualties. Around 0230 GMT, up to 10 drones were intercepted and destroyed as they approached the Kyiv region, according to Serhiy Popko, head of Kyiv's military administration.
Russia has yet to comment on the recent developments. Both Russia and Ukraine maintain that their respective military actions are focused on destroying key infrastructure and not targeting civilians.
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- With inputs from agencies
