Ukrainian Drone Attacks Target Rostov Region: December 2023 Incident
On the evening of December 23, 2023, the Rostov region of Russia experienced a series of drone attacks attributed to the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Acting Governor Yuri Slyusar reported the incidents via his Telegram channel, confirming that eight UAVs were shot down in the Millerovo area. The attacks reportedly aimed at the Millerovo military airfield, with some drone debris leading to a significant fire in a nearby forest belt, as captured in footage shared online.
Despite the dramatic visuals of the fire, Governor Slyusar did not provide details on any casualties or the extent of the damage. However, he noted that electronic warfare systems successfully intercepted four additional drones in the Millerovsky and Tarasovsky districts during the night. The ongoing threat of drone attacks in the region remains a concern, as air defense systems had previously destroyed nine drones over the Rostov Region and two over the Sea of Azov on the same night.
Broader Context of Drone Warfare in Ukraine
In addition to the incidents in Rostov, the Zaporizhia region also reported drone activity, with two enemy drones intercepted over Melitopol. Local officials stated that six attacks occurred, with five UAVs shot down before reaching the city. Fortunately, there were no casualties among civilians, although damage to the Central Market building was reported due to shrapnel from one of the drones.
The Russian Defense Ministry has been actively monitoring these developments, releasing footage of a Ukrainian Stryker vehicle being destroyed by a Russian UAV. This incident highlights the ongoing drone warfare that has escalated in the region, with both sides employing UAVs for reconnaissance and attacks. The presence of an American Global Hawk reconnaissance drone over the area on December 23 further underscores the international dimensions of the conflict.
