LONDON -- In a significant escalation of hostilities, Russia launched a series of drone and missile attacks against Ukraine overnight on Sunday, coinciding with the country's celebration of its independence day, which marks the 1991 declaration of independence from the Soviet Union. The Ukrainian Air Force reported that Russia deployed 72 drones and one Iskander-M ballistic missile in this latest assault, with 48 of the drones successfully intercepted or neutralized.
The air force indicated that the missile and 24 of the drones struck multiple locations across Ukraine, underlining the ongoing threat posed by Russian aggression. As Ukraine commemorates its independence day, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy released a statement reflecting on the nation’s resilience during the previous 1,278 days of conflict with Russia, framing it as a struggle for true independence.
Ukraine's independence day comes amidst ongoing diplomatic efforts led by the United States to bring an end to Russia's full-scale invasion, which commenced in February 2022. This invasion followed nearly a decade of increasing Russian aggression and land annexations. In a show of solidarity, President Zelenskyy shared a message from former U.S. President Donald Trump, who praised the indomitable spirit of the Ukrainian people and expressed respect for their fight for freedom.
Trump's letter emphasized the urgent need for a negotiated settlement, advocating for a durable peace that ensures Ukraine's sovereignty and dignity. In response, Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for Trump's supportive words and reiterated the importance of U.S. assistance in defending Ukraine's most cherished values: independence, freedom, and peace. He stated, “We believe that by working together, we can put an end to this war and achieve real peace for Ukraine.”
In a reciprocal action, Ukraine continued its long-range attacks against Russian targets overnight. According to the Russian Defense Ministry, Russian forces successfully intercepted 95 Ukrainian drones across 14 regions. Notably, one drone was reportedly shot down as it approached Moscow, while additional interceptions occurred over the Leningrad region and St. Petersburg.
Local authorities in Russia reported injuries resulting from drone attacks in the Bryansk region, with damage inflicted on both homes and vehicles. Furthermore, explosions linked to drone operations were detected at the Syzran oil refinery in the Samara region, alongside a fire at the Novatek gas terminal near Ust-Luga, west of St. Petersburg.
In response to the heightened threat, Russia's federal air transport agency, Rosaviatsiya, announced temporary flight restrictions affecting at least 11 airports nationwide, including in Pskov, Saratov, Volgograd, and St. Petersburg. In the Kursk region, a downed Ukrainian drone caused a fire at the Kursk Nuclear Power Plant. According to the plant's press service, the drone's impact led to damage to an auxiliary transformer; however, radiation levels remained normal, and there was no immediate danger to public safety.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) emphasized the necessity of safeguarding nuclear facilities in light of these developments. Director General Rafael Grossi reiterated the importance of protecting every nuclear site at all times to ensure safety and security amid ongoing military operations.
This recent wave of attacks underscores the volatile situation in Ukraine as it strives to maintain its sovereignty and independence amid ongoing Russian aggression. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely as diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict persist.
