Ukraine's capital, Kyiv, was rocked by what officials described as Russia's largest drone attack since the invasion's onset, NBC News reports.
The drone attack resulted in injuries to five individuals amid a barrage of explosions that jolted residents from their early morning slumber.
An inhabitant collects broken glass after the explosion of a downed Russian drone in a yard among residential buildings in Kyiv on November 25, 2023, amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Ukraine said it had downed 71 Russian attack drones overnight in what Kyiv authorities said was the biggest attack on the capital since the start of the invasion. (Photo by Sergei SUPINSKY / AFP)
More Than 70 Attack Drones Rock Kyiv
According to Ukraine's Air Force statement on Telegram, the assault witnessed the launch of nearly 75 Shahed drones from two directions, primarily targeting Kyiv.
The attack, deemed a "record number" of drones, was met with robust defense measures, resulting in the interception of 71 drones across six Ukrainian regions. However, the majority of interceptions occurred in the Kyiv region.
The air defense efforts, comprising anti-aircraft missile troops, tactical aviation, mobile fire groups, and electronic warfare units, repelled the aerial attack.
Officials say it was the fourth drone attack on Kyiv this month.
Drone Attack Casualties
Despite their efforts, the assault caused substantial damage, injuring five, including an 11-year-old girl, as confirmed by Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko.
The onslaught resulted in fires, with fragments from downed drones igniting a blaze in a children's nursery.
President Volodymyr Zelenskiy condemned the assault as an act of "wilful terror" on a day when Ukrainians commemorate the tragic 1932-33 Holodomor famine.
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Moreover, concerns had been mounting regarding Russia's potential targeting of Ukraine's energy infrastructure. CNN reports that the recent attack severed power to 77 residential structures and 120 establishments, raising apprehensions about a more extensive campaign to disrupt Ukraine's energy systems during the approaching winter.
According to the BBC, as winter continues to bite, Russia is expected to resume its tactic of targeting Ukraine's energy infrastructure. This appears to be the case, with 16,000 homes in the central Kyiv region still without power.
Last winter, Russia had employed a sustained campaign involving missile and drone strikes to undermine Ukraine's energy infrastructure. This recent assault raises similar concerns, highlighting vulnerabilities in the face of ongoing conflict.
Despite the disruptions caused, Ukrainian authorities swiftly restored power to affected areas. Ukrainian energy company DTEK announced the successful restoration of power to all Kyiv residents, showcasing an increased resilience to mitigate the impact of such assaults.
On-Going War
This attack underscores the enduring challenges faced by Ukraine in safeguarding its citizens and critical infrastructure against Russian aggression.
However, the improved defense mechanisms and swift restoration efforts demonstrate the country's resilience in adversity.
President Zelenskiy continues his efforts to rally global support against Russian aggression while pursuing Ukraine's path toward potential European Union membership, seeking solidarity in the face of ongoing threats.
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