Russian air defences shoot down 14 Ukrainian drones

Russian air defence forces successfully intercepted and destroyed 14 Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) overnight, according to the Russian Defense Ministry.

"The intercepted drones were downed over several regions: 7 in Kursk, 3 in Belgorod, 2 in Rostov, 1 in Bryansk, and 1 in Lipetsk," the ministry said, as per Caliber.Az.

Fortunately, there were no reported casualties or significant damage. Belgorod Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov mentioned that while windows were shattered and minor building damage occurred due to three drone attacks and several shelling incidents, no serious injuries were reported.

In a separate development, Ukrainian missile forces targeted the Russian Saky airfield in Crimea, which had been used for long-range attacks. The Ukrainian military’s general staff reported that this airfield, located in western Crimea, plays a crucial role in Russia’s control over the Black Sea and its airstrikes on Ukrainian territory. The Ukrainian military is currently assessing the aftermath of the strike. There has been no immediate comment from Russia’s defence ministry or local officials.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy indirectly acknowledged the attack in his nightly address, commending Ukrainian soldiers for their precision in targeting Russian bases and logistics in occupied areas. He expressed gratitude for their efforts, noting recent strikes on Russian air defence systems in Crimea, including S-300 and S-400 units.

Since the start of the conflict, mutual attacks between Ukraine and Russia have intensified. Russia has consistently targeted Ukraine’s energy sector with missile and drone strikes, causing widespread blackouts and forcing Kyiv to import large-scale electricity from the European Union. In response, Ukraine has launched numerous drone attacks on Russian territory, escalating the ongoing conflict.

The war, which began in 2022, has led to significant destruction and disruption on both sides, with frequent exchanges of aerial and artillery attacks, impacting civilian infrastructure and lives.