Russian Strikes Intensify in Ukraine
Over the past 24 hours, Russian troops have significantly escalated their offensive, targeting an explosives production plant and various military equipment and personnel of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. According to the Russian Ministry of Defense, operational-tactical aviation, unmanned aerial vehicles, missile forces, and artillery were deployed to hit 136 regions, including a P-18 radar station.
Impact on Ukrainian Forces
The Russian air defense systems intercepted two ATACMS operational-tactical missiles, an S-200 anti-aircraft guided missile, six HIMARS missiles, and 17 unmanned aerial vehicles. The Russian Ministry of Defense reported substantial losses for the Ukrainian forces, including up to 205 military personnel, a tank, several pickup trucks, and various artillery units.
Units from the North group of Russian troops defeated concentrations of Ukrainian manpower and equipment in the Kharkiv region, repelling eight counterattacks. Similarly, the West, Southern, Center, Vostok, and Dnepr groups of Russian troops reported significant advancements and inflicted heavy losses on Ukrainian forces in various regions, including the Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) and the Luhansk People's Republic (LPR).
Civilian Casualties and Constant Bombardments
The conflict has also resulted in civilian casualties. Local authorities in the Kharkiv and Kherson regions reported that five civilians were killed by Russian fire. In Kherson, three people lost their lives, while Russian strikes on civilian infrastructure in the village of Budy, Kharkiv, killed two people and injured 22 others.
The Ukrainian army noted that the Kharkiv region has been under constant bombardment by Russian planes, particularly since the new offensive began two months ago. The city of Kharkiv remains a frequent target, with Russian troops launching a ground offensive in the region on May 10, which has been met with resistance from the Ukrainian army despite stretched resources.
- The Russian Ministry of Defense emphasized the strategic impact of their recent operations, highlighting the destruction of key Ukrainian military assets and infrastructure. This escalation comes as Russia continues to gain ground in eastern Ukraine, following the fall of the Avdiivka fortress in February.
- Ukrainian officials have condemned the attacks on civilian areas, calling for increased international support to defend against the ongoing Russian aggression. The situation remains dire, with both military and civilian areas under continuous threat from Russian strikes.
