Ukraine launched a significant nighttime drone attack targeting multiple Russian regions, including Crimea, according to the Russian Defense Ministry on Friday. The attack involved approximately 660 drones, marking one of the largest assaults since the onset of the full-scale invasion by Russia over four years ago. The previous largest attack occurred on May 17, involving 556 drones.
Ukrainian long-range drones have been targeting oil production and energy facilities within Russia, aiming to disrupt fuel supplies and military logistics, which Western officials and analysts suggest has impacted Russia's battlefield operations. Initial reports from Russia indicated that a chemical plant and a hydroelectric facility in Novomoskovsk were attacked, but details on damage were limited, and independent verification was not available.
Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin reported that 47 Ukrainian drones were intercepted as they approached the capital, with no reported casualties or damage. Ukraine's Security Service claimed to have targeted Russian naval vessels and air defense systems in Crimea, asserting that the strikes resulted in significant fires, although this claim could not be independently verified.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced a planned escalation of attacks, referring to a '40-day influence operation' aimed at pressuring Russia to end the conflict. Despite ongoing hostilities, both sides exchanged prisoners of war, with 160 individuals returning home on Friday.
In related developments, Russian attacks in Ukraine resulted in civilian casualties, with reports indicating three deaths and 29 injuries from recent strikes in the Kharkiv region. Ukrainian defenses reported intercepting 174 out of 189 Russian drones, although some ballistic missiles managed to hit various locations.
Additionally, Ukrainian intelligence indicated no significant Russian military buildup near the border with Belarus, despite reports of expanded military sites within Belarus.
This ongoing conflict continues to evolve, with international discussions and support for Ukraine expected to play a crucial role in future developments.