Ukraine Claims Destruction of at Least 6 Russian Fighter Jets in Massive Drone Attack.
In what could mark one of the most significant drone attacks of the ongoing conflict, Ukraine has reported the destruction of at least six Russian fighter jets and the damaging of eight more.
The assault targeted the Morozovsk military airbase in Rostov during the early hours of Friday morning, according to unnamed Ukrainian officials cited by Reuters and AP.
While Ukraine asserts the success of its operation, Russia has provided conflicting accounts, acknowledging a massive drone attack but claiming to have intercepted and destroyed all 44 drones launched. The Russian Defense Ministry stated that only a power substation suffered damage in the attack.
The Morozovsk military airbase wasn’t the only target; regions including Saratov, Kursk, Belgorod, and Krasnodar were also reportedly hit, as per the BBC.
A video purportedly showing part of the attack was shared on Telegram by former Ukrainian political advisor Anton Gerashchenko, although its authenticity remains unverified.
Details regarding the types of aircraft destroyed were not disclosed in the reports. However, sources suggested that Su-34 fighter-bombers, Su-27 fighters, and Su-24 bombers were stationed at the targeted base.
20 Russian soldiers killed.
In addition to the confirmed destruction of six aircraft, eight more were reportedly damaged, with an estimated 20 Russian soldiers killed or injured, according to sources cited by The Kyiv Independent.
Describing the operation as significant, a source told The Kyiv Independent that it would notably diminish the combat potential of Russian forces.
Vasily Golubev, governor of the Rostov district, confirmed casualties and damage, stating that eight people were injured by an explosive device from a fallen UAV, and an electrical substation was struck.
If validated, this drone strike would represent a notable success for Ukraine. However, despite such victories, challenges persist on the ground. Currently, a $60 billion aid package for Ukraine faces obstacles in a congressional stand-off.
In an interview with Business Insider’s Sinad Baker, two Ukrainian soldiers emphasized the importance of continued support from allies, highlighting the potential consequences for Europe if assistance wanes.
Efforts to obtain comments from representatives of the Ukrainian military, SBU, and the Russian military were unsuccessful at the time of reporting.
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