Russian Ministry of Defense Thwarts Major Ukrainian Drone Attack Near Crimea

Russian Ministry of Defense Thwarts Ukrainian Drone Attack near Crimea

In a recent announcement, the Russian Ministry of Defense revealed that Russia successfully foiled a major Ukrainian drone attack near Crimea, shooting down as many as 42 drones. This air assault is considered the largest attack on the peninsula in recent times and comes shortly after Kiev claimed responsibility for a special forces raid in the area.

Increasing Intensity of Attacks on Crimea

Crimea, which was annexed by Russia in 2014, has been a target of Ukrainian aggression throughout the conflict in Ukraine. However, in recent weeks, the attacks on Crimea have become more frequent and intense.

Russian Defense Ministry’s Response

The Russian Ministry of Defense reported on Telegram that nine drones were destroyed over the territory of Crimea, while 33 other aircraft were suppressed by electronic warfare and crashed before reaching their target. The ministry did not provide details on any damage or injuries resulting from these attacks.

Local Official’s Account

A Russian-appointed local official stated that several drones were destroyed over the sea near Cape Khersones in Crimea. This cape is located in the southwest of the peninsula, close to the city of Sevastopol, which houses the Russian Black Sea Fleet. The official mentioned that there were no reports of damage to civilian infrastructure caused by the drones.

Uncertainty Surrounding the Attacks

It remains unclear whether the drones destroyed near Cape Khersones were included in the total of 42 reported by the Russian Ministry of Defense. The governor of Sevastopol confirmed that all forces and equipment are on combat readiness.

Ukraine’s Objectives and Recent Incidents

Ukraine has repeatedly expressed its intentions to retake Crimea. In recent weeks, Russian infrastructure on the peninsula has been targeted with a series of 28 drone attacks. Additionally, Ukraine claimed that its forces landed on the peninsula and raised the country’s flag during a special operation. Moscow has also accused Ukraine of attacking the Crimea Bridge, which connects the peninsula with Russia and has experienced multiple accidents.

Pentagon’s Support for Ukraine

As reports of the air attack emerge, the Pentagon announced its plans to train Ukrainian F-16 pilots in the United States starting next month. Ukraine has long sought these planes and is currently engaged in a counter-offensive to regain territory held by Russian forces. US President Joe Biden and Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky discussed the training program during their recent conversation.

Speculations on Yevgeny Prigozhin’s Fate

Yevgeny Prigozhin, the head of the Wagner mercenary group, who previously led an insurgency against the Russian military, may have died in a plane crash. US President Joe Biden expressed that he was not surprised by this news. Russian President Vladimir Putin praised Prigozhin and the paramilitary group he led, acknowledging their achievements despite their mistakes.

Defense Systems Prevent Ukrainian Missile Attack near Kaluga

The Russian Ministry of Defense announced that their air defense systems destroyed a Ukrainian missile over the Kaluga region. Kaluga shares a border with Moscow, which has recently faced numerous Ukrainian drone attacks. Following Kiev’s declaration to “return” the conflict to Russia, flights to and from Vnukovo and Domodedovo airports in Moscow were temporarily halted.