Russia launches ‘retaliatory strikes’ on Ukrainian airfield

(MENAFN) Russia has launched overnight airstrikes on a Ukrainian airfield located in the Rovno Region, in response to recent attacks on its air forces, according to the Russian Defense Ministry. The operation was described as part of broader retaliatory measures following what Moscow termed “terrorist attacks” by Kiev.

Last week, Ukrainian intelligence claimed to have severely damaged Russian air capabilities by targeting airfields deep inside Russia using short-range drones hidden in freight train compartments. Russian officials, however, have dismissed these claims as highly exaggerated.

The strikes were also linked to other recent events, including a deadly train derailment that Russian investigators have attributed to Ukrainian sabotage aimed at damaging transport infrastructure and undermining public morale.

According to the ministry, the latest strikes targeted not only the Dubno airfield but also weapons manufacturing facilities, drone assembly sites, ammunition storage areas, and various other military installations across Ukraine.

Earlier Monday, Russia reported intercepting 79 Ukrainian drones overnight, describing such attacks as a daily occurrence. One recent drone strike reportedly caused a significant power outage in Russia’s Kursk Region.

Ukrainian sources claimed that Russia used hypersonic Kinzhal missiles in the Dubno strike, though Moscow has not disclosed the specific weapons used. Reports also suggest that Western-supplied F-16 jets may be stationed at the targeted airfield alongside Ukraine’s older Soviet-era aircraft.

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