KRAMATORSK: Ukraine reported on Friday that it had launched a massive attack, destroying at least six Russian military planes at a Russian airbase, amidst reports of escalating conflict in eastern Ukraine.
In one of its largest overnight operations in weeks, Kyiv fired over 50 drones at Russian territory, according to Russia’s defense ministry.
A security source in Kyiv claimed that the Morozovsk air base in Russia’s southern Rostov region was targeted, resulting in the destruction of six Russian planes and significant damage to eight others. The source described the operation as a joint effort by the SBU security service and the military.
Moscow has yet to respond to these claims, and verification from independent sources is currently unavailable.
Russian authorities stated that 44 of the 53 drones launched by Kyiv targeted the southern Rostov region, which houses major military sites, including the command headquarters for the ongoing offensive.
Reports from Rostov governor Vasily Golubev indicated that several investigators were injured while examining a downed drone near the air base. An explosive device within one of the drones detonated, causing injuries to eight individuals.
Meanwhile, on the eastern frontlines, Russian forces are advancing towards the Ukrainian town of Chasiv Yar in Donetsk region. Chasiv Yar, already under constant fire, appears to be the next focal point of the Russian advance.
Chasiv Yar’s military administration head, Sergiy Chaus, described the situation as increasingly perilous, with constant shelling and no respite.
Reports suggest that Russian troops have reached the outskirts of the town, but Chaus refrained from confirming these claims.
The town, situated near Bakhmut, which fell to Russian forces last May, has witnessed intensified attacks in recent weeks. Despite the peril, around 770 people remain in Chasiv Yar.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that Ukrainian forces have managed to stabilize their positions, despite challenges such as a shortage of ammunition and delayed supplies.
With Ukraine facing defensive challenges on the ground, Kyiv has escalated its aerial attacks on Russian territory, targeting military installations and energy facilities to disrupt Russian supply lines. These operations indicate a shift towards offensive strategies to counter Russian advances.
