Today, the Ukrainian air defense successfully resisted a massive drone attack, claiming all targets were shot down. However, Russian strikes across Ukraine resulted in the tragic loss of at least two lives and injuries to nine others, including a child. The Ukrainian Air Force reported that Russia launched a significant assault involving cruise missiles and 89 Iranian-designed drones, marking one of the largest attacks in recent months. Notably, over 40 drones were neutralized over Kyiv and its suburbs, preventing further casualties, although damage to 13 homes was reported in the Kyiv region. Emergency services responded promptly to extinguish fires caused by debris from the attacks.
In the Donetsk region, the situation remains dire as Russian attacks claimed another life in Toretsk and injured multiple civilians in Mykolaivka and Kherson Oblast. Ukrainian forces, however, are not standing idly by; they have successfully targeted Russian logistics, striking oil depots in Kursk to hinder Russian advancements. Ukrainian forces also demonstrated their capability by destroying a Russian attack convoy, showcasing their ongoing defensive efforts against the backdrop of Russia's slight advances in eastern Ukraine. Despite the challenges, the Ukrainian military continues to manage significant interceptions of Russian attacks, particularly in the Donetsk region.
The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) notes that while Russia has made minor advances, they lack the operational capacity for a renewed offensive in Donetsk. Reports indicate that Russian casualties are mounting, with over 578,120 soldiers reported injured or killed since February 2022. This staggering loss is attributed to President Putin's strategy of attrition, which, while aimed at wearing down Ukrainian forces, is likely to strain Russian troops in the long run.
