T he Lipetsk region in Russia has been struck by a significant Ukrainian drone attack, according to regional Governor Igor Artamonov. The assault, which occurred Friday, resulted in at least nine injuries, damaged energy infrastructure, and led to the temporary evacuation of residents in several areas.
Governor Artamonov detailed the extent of the damage via Telegram, reporting that the attack targeted an airfield in Lipetsk, located deeper within Russian territory than previous strikes. The Ukrainian operation reportedly destroyed an ammunition depot containing over 700 guided bombs and caused a large fire. The region's emergency ministry confirmed the outbreak of a fire at a military airfield due to the powerful explosion.
This attack follows Russia's accusation that Ukrainian troops crossed into its Kursk region on Wednesday, marking a rare incursion that has heightened tensions. In response, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky acknowledged the assault, stating that Russia must "feel" the impact of its invasion of Ukraine. Zelensky emphasized the need for Russia to experience the consequences of its actions, though he did not directly reference the Lipetsk strike.
A Ukrainian source with knowledge of the attack claimed that it was a coordinated effort involving military, security services, and special operations forces. The source reported that numerous fighter jets and helicopters were present at the airfield during the strike.
In the wake of these events, Russian defense officials reported intercepting and destroying 75 "aircraft-type" drones, including 19 over Lipetsk and others across various regions including Belgorod, Kursk, and Crimea. This surge in drone attacks highlights the intensifying nature of the conflict, with Ukraine’s actions signaling a strategic push to disrupt and demoralize Russian forces while potentially diverting them from the eastern front.
Amid these developments, Mykhailo Podolyak, an advisor to President Zelensky, commended the Western response to Ukraine's operations, suggesting broad international support for Ukraine’s right to defend itself, including actions on Russian soil. EU and US officials have acknowledged Ukraine’s right to defend itself, though responses have varied.
As the conflict continues to escalate, residents in affected regions like Lipetsk and Kursk are grappling with the immediate impact of these attacks, while international observers closely monitor the evolving situation.
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