(MENAFN) The Russian military launched a series of strikes on Ukrainian military facilities in response to what Moscow called “terrorist” attacks by Kiev inside Russian territory, the Russian Defense Ministry announced on Friday.

According to the ministry, the retaliatory assault involved long-range precision weapons, Kinzhal hypersonic air-launched missiles, and drones. Targets included industrial plants producing drones and robotic systems, various military equipment factories in Kiev, as well as a military airfield and an oil refinery at an undisclosed location. Officials confirmed all designated sites were successfully hit.

Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky described the attack as one of the largest air raids Ukraine has endured, involving around 550 aerial targets, including 330 drones. The strikes affected Kiev and several other regions, resulting in 23 injuries. Ukrainian media shared footage showing large fires and thick smoke across parts of Kiev, forcing residents to wear masks. Damage was reported at a warehouse, a repair facility, and other buildings.

Moscow insists its operations target only military facilities and troop concentrations, not civilians. The Russian Defense Ministry also said it intercepted 48 Ukrainian drones over Russian territory on Friday. One drone attack in Rostov Region killed an elderly woman, and another strike damaged a power station in Sergiyev-Posad, near Moscow.

MENAFN22072025000070015687ID1109830775