In a recent attack, a missile targeted the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv, breaking a two-month period of relative calm. Fortunately, there were no casualties reported. However, frontline regions experienced waves of drone attacks overnight. Ukrainian officials marked the anniversary of recapturing Kherson city, which was liberated a year ago in a significant frontline shift. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky praised Kherson as a “city of hope” but expressed regret over the daily shelling by Russia.
Zelensky revealed that Russia launched almost 40 drones and rockets, including ballistic attacks against Kyiv, and drones and rockets against Odesa and the Kharkiv region. Ukraine has been preparing for a renewed aerial onslaught this winter following last year’s attacks on the country’s energy grid, which left thousands without heating or electricity in freezing temperatures.
The missile targeted Kyiv after a pause of 52 days, according to Sergiy Popko, the head of the Kyiv city military administration. Two strong explosions were heard in central Kyiv, and the air force reported destroying a missile approaching the city without any casualties. The last missile downed in Kyiv was on September 21, which injured seven people.
In addition to the missile attack, drone attacks were also reported. Two missiles hit a field in the wider Kyiv region, damaging five private homes. The Ukrainian air force managed to down 19 out of the 31 attack drones launched by Russia. Most of the attack drones were sent to frontline areas. Two men were killed in the Sumy region, and two missiles hit Odesa, injuring three people.
Ukraine has expressed concerns that Russia may resume strikes on energy infrastructures. Energy Minister German Galushchenko stated that if Ukraine’s power grid comes under sustained attacks, it would be fair to target Russia’s oil and gas infrastructure. In preparation for possible attacks, Ukraine has deployed more defense systems.
Despite the ongoing conflict, Ukrainian President Zelensky praised his country’s resilience and unity while congratulating residents and soldiers on the liberation of Kherson. The city was liberated from Russian troops last year, although Russian forces still control parts of the region. Ukrainian forces are currently facing assaults from Russian troops near the eastern frontline town of Avdiivka.
Ukrainian officials have warned of a potential third wave of attacks from Russian forces, who began storming Avdiivka about a month ago. In Toretsk, two elderly individuals died, possibly due to artillery fire. The situation remains tense, and Ukraine continues to face ongoing threats from Russian aggression.
