Plumes of smoke rose after a Ukrainian drone attack on a warehouse in the Voronezh region of southwestern Russia on July 7, prompting a state of emergency. The warehouse, located in the Podgorensky district, was suspected to be an ammunition supply depot for Russian troops fighting in Ukraine.
Voronezh Governor Aleksandr Gusev confirmed the attack, stating that several unmanned aerial vehicles were detected and destroyed by air defense forces. The debris from the drones caused a fire, leading to the detonation of explosive devices. Although no injuries were reported, two elderly women were taken to the hospital for checks.
The attack has led to the evacuation of around 50 people from three nearby settlements to temporary accommodation centers, where they are receiving necessary assistance. Operational, military, and official services are actively working to manage the situation.
A source from the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) claimed responsibility for the drone attack, stating that the warehouse was used to store various types of ammunition, including surface-to-surface and surface-to-air missiles. CNN has not independently verified these claims.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov responded to the attack by stating that Russia will retaliate, emphasizing that the United States and NATO are not at war with Russia, despite the ongoing tensions.
In addition to the Voronezh incident, Ukrainian drone strikes were intercepted in the Belgorod border region on the same night. Meanwhile, Russian attacks in Ukraine continued, wounding at least two people in the Kharkiv region and causing multiple fires in the Kherson region.
Ukraine has intensified its drone attacks on Russian territory, targeting energy sites and border towns. In recent weeks, the Zaporizhia region was hit 361 times in eight villages, and Russian attacks across Ukraine have resulted in multiple casualties and injuries.
- The drone attack in Voronezh is part of a broader escalation in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, with both sides employing drones extensively. The use of drones has become a significant aspect of the ongoing war since Russia's offensive began in February 2022.
- Ukraine has been targeting energy sites and other strategic locations within Russian territory, claiming these sites supply the Russian military. This strategy aims to disrupt Russian military operations and supply chains.
- On the other hand, the Russian military continues its relentless bombings across Ukraine. The Zaporizhia region has been particularly affected, with 361 attacks reported in just one day. The attacks have resulted in numerous casualties and significant damage to infrastructure.
- The ongoing conflict has led to a humanitarian crisis, with many civilians being evacuated from affected areas. Temporary accommodation centers have been set up to provide shelter and assistance to those displaced by the fighting.
- The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, with concerns about the potential for further escalation and the impact on regional stability.
