Russia attacks Ukraine with missile and 120 drones, 19 locations affected
Russia launched a major drone and missile assault on Ukraine, impacting multiple locations and prompting a significant air defense response.
On the night of February 19-20, Russian forces executed a large-scale attack on Ukraine employing an Iskander-M ballistic missile alongside 120 drones. Ukrainian air defense forces successfully destroyed or jammed 106 of the unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), showcasing the effectiveness of the country's defense systems amidst ongoing hostilities. Nevertheless, the situation remained tense, with reports of several drones still operational within Ukrainian airspace by the attack's conclusion.
The assault reportedly targeted 19 locations across Ukraine, with specific damage noted in various districts including the northern, southern, and eastern regions. Details from Ukraine's Air Force indicated that there were significant impacts from the strike, including 11 locations hit by the missile and 13 UAVs, along with debris falling across 8 additional locations from intercepted aerial assets. As the attack progressed, it was evident that Russian forces maintained their aggressive stance, continuing to penetrate Ukrainian airspace.
Furthermore, the assault on the night of February 20-21 also saw a continuation of the Russian offensive with a targeted drone attack on the Odesa district, resulting in injuries to civilians. This pattern of repeated attacks emphasizes the ongoing conflict dynamics and raises concerns over the humanitarian impact on the affected regions. The situation underscores the persistent volatility and escalation risks present in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia.