Russian Air Defense Intercepts Ukrainian Drones
Last night, the Russian Defense Ministry reported that air defense systems successfully intercepted and destroyed 16 Ukrainian drones across four regions of Russia. The majority of these unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) were shot down over Crimea, with additional interceptions occurring in the Kursk region, North Ossetia-Alania, and Chechnya. The ministry characterized these actions as attempts by the Ukrainian Armed Forces to conduct terrorist attacks on Russian territory.
Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov noted that one drone targeted a barracks in Grozny, resulting in minor injuries to four guards. He emphasized that the personnel were in secure locations during the attack, which caused minor structural damage but no serious harm. Kadyrov vowed retaliation against Ukraine, stating that a reserve of 84,000 volunteers from Chechnya is prepared to engage at any moment.
Additionally, the Ukrainian military attempted to strike the Crimean peninsula on December 11, leading to multiple interceptions by Russian air defense forces, which reported no casualties or damage from these engagements.
Russian Forces Advance Near Pokrovsk
In a separate development, Russian forces have advanced to within three kilometers of the strategic Ukrainian town of Pokrovsk, according to reports from Ukrainian military sources. This advance follows intense fighting, resulting in the destruction of Ukrainian positions in the area. The town, which has been a focal point of conflict, is crucial for its supply routes connecting to military centers in the Donetsk region.
Ukrainian officials have warned that gas supplies to Pokrovsk will be cut off due to ongoing hostilities and damage to infrastructure. The situation remains tense, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky acknowledging the challenges faced by defenders in the region.
Response to Missile Attacks
On the same day, the Russian Defense Ministry vowed to retaliate against a Ukrainian missile attack involving US-made ATACMS ballistic missiles that targeted the city of Taganrog in the Rostov region. The ministry reported injuries among Russian military personnel and damage to military vehicles and buildings. Ukraine has confirmed its strikes against Russian targets but has not disclosed the specifics of the missile types used. The ongoing conflict continues to escalate, with both sides preparing for further military actions.
