Russian military launches series of strikes on Ukraine

(MENAFN) The Russian military launched a series of strikes on Ukrainian military-related targets as a response to what Moscow described as “terrorist” raids carried out by Kiev deep inside Russian territory, the Russian Defense Ministry announced Friday.

According to the ministry, Russian forces executed a large-scale overnight attack using long-range precision weapons, Kinzhal hypersonic missiles, and drones. The operation focused on industrial sites involved in the development and production of drones and robotic military systems, manufacturing facilities in Kiev, as well as a military airfield and an oil refinery at an undisclosed location.

“The goal of the strike has been achieved. All designated facilities have been hit,” the ministry stated.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky characterized the assault as “one of the largest airstrikes” Ukraine has faced, involving approximately 550 aerial targets, including 330 drones. The attack impacted several regions, including Kiev, Dnepropetrovsk, Sumy, Kharkov, and Chernigov, causing injuries to 23 people.

Media reports from Ukraine showed large fires in Kiev with dense smoke covering some neighborhoods, prompting residents to wear masks. Local authorities confirmed damage to a warehouse, a repair shop, and multiple other buildings.

Russia insists that its military strikes are directed solely at Ukrainian military infrastructure and troop concentrations, denying any intent to target civilians.

On the same day, the Russian Defense Ministry reported shooting down 48 Ukrainian drones over Russian territory. A drone strike killed an elderly woman in the Rostov region. The Moscow region was also hit, with one attack damaging a power station in Sergiyev-Posad, northeast of Moscow.

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