In a renewed onslaught, Russia deployed a barrage of hypersonic and cruise missiles against various Ukrainian targets on Monday, resulting in at least four reported civilian casualties and 30 injuries. Analysts had previously warned of Russia’s winter bombardment strategy, with a focus on Kyiv’s defense industry.
Unlike the previous winter, where the power grid was a prime target, this time Russia aimed its missiles at Kyiv’s defense industry. However, the strikes have consistently hit civilian areas, causing damage to housing, shopping malls, and urban infrastructure across Ukraine.
Ukrainian Commander-in-Chief Valerii Zaluzhnyi reported that out of the 51 missiles launched by Russia, 18 cruise missiles were intercepted by the Ukrainian Air Force, along with all eight Shahed drones. Russia’s Defense Ministry claimed precision strikes on Ukraine’s military-industrial complex using sea-launched and air-launched long-range missiles, including Kinzhal hypersonic missiles.
The attacks left a trail of destruction, with casualties reported in various cities. Kryvyi Rih, President Zelenskyy’s hometown, witnessed significant damage to houses and a shopping mall. Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city, was struck by at least four missiles, resulting in injuries and fatalities. Western Ukraine’s Khmelnytskyi region reported two deaths and multiple explosions during the missile assault.
Despite the intense missile attacks, Russian forces faced unsuccessful attempts to advance along the front line in several areas, as reported by the Ukrainian military. Meanwhile, in the Russia-occupied Luhansk region, a Russian warplane accidentally released a bomb on the town of Rubizhne, causing concern but fortunately resulting in no injuries.
The conflict continues, with Russian troops conducting artillery attacks in the Kherson region, leading to casualties. Additionally, this incident comes days after a similar accidental bomb release over Petropavlovka, adding to a series of unintentional munition drops in the region. Last April, a similar incident in Belgorod caused injuries and alarmed local residents.
By AP
