Kyiv: Russia has reportedly launched a series of missile strikes on Ukraine, including the deployment of advanced Kinzhal hypersonic missiles, as confirmed by the Ukrainian Air Force via IANS. The Kinzhal missiles are noted for their high speed and formidable explosive capabilities, posing significant challenges to existing defense systems.
Residents in the western Ukrainian region of Khmelnytskyi reported multiple explosions early Friday, according to Public broadcaster Suspilne cited by IANS. This area includes a critical Ukrainian airbase near Starokostyantyniv, anticipated to host Western F-16 fighter jets provided by Ukraine’s allies. Kiev’s mayor, Vitali Klitschko, reported additional explosions in the vicinity.
Earlier in the night, Russia initiated a comprehensive assault, employing cruise missiles, rockets, and combat drones. The Ukrainian Air Force, as per IANS, confirmed the use of at least two Kinzhal missiles in the attack. Firefighters continued efforts to contain a fire at an industrial plant near Kyiv that had persisted since Wednesday.
Also Read | Philippines Asserts South China Sea Claim with UN Filing
Simultaneously, Ukraine conducted a significant drone strike early Friday, involving over 80 drones targeting Russian border regions, reported IANS citing the Russian Ministry of Defence. Russian authorities stated that 70 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) were intercepted over the Rostov region, with power outages reported in several villages by Vasily Golubev, governor of the Rostov region.
Initial assessments indicated no casualties from the attacks, as reported by IANS. In the Voronezh region, falling debris caused minor damage to an oil depot, although no injuries were reported.
Also Read | Ukrainians Skeptical as Zelensky Pursues Peace Summit in Switzerland
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which began in February 2022, has resulted in ongoing large-scale conflict between the two nations.
Meanwhile, during Thursday’s events, Ukraine and Japan finalized a 10-year security agreement at the G7 summit sidelines, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy disclosed, according to Reuters. This agreement marks one of several long-term security pacts Ukraine has entered into with allies such as Britain, France, and Germany, aimed at bolstering support amidst the ongoing conflict.
