In a recent statement on social media, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported that Russia launched a "massive combined attack" on Ukraine overnight, targeting energy infrastructure across the country. Zelenskyy mentioned that the attack involved approximately 120 missiles and 90 drones, causing damage to some facilities and resulting in power outages in certain areas.
The Ukrainian air force confirmed that Russia utilized strategic bombers, fighter jets, and other aircraft in the attack, firing a variety of missiles including Kalibr cruise missiles, Kinzhal ballistic missiles, and a Zircon hypersonic missile. Despite the intensity of the attack, Ukraine's air defenses were able to take out more than 140 aerial targets overnight.
While the exact number of casualties is still unknown, Zelenskyy stated that two individuals were killed and six were injured in a drone attack on Mykolaiv in southern Ukraine. The rate of Russian missile attacks on Ukraine has varied over the past few months, with a significant decrease in the number of missiles fired in September compared to August.
A recent study by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) revealed that Russia maintained a daily average of 23.2 missile strikes on Ukraine from September 28, 2022, to September 1, 2024. This suggests a sustained military capability in Moscow and potential logistical support from countries like Iran, North Korea, and China.
Representatives from the Kremlin and the Armed Forces of Ukraine were not available for immediate comment on the recent attack. The situation between Russia and Ukraine continues to be fluid and evolving, with tensions remaining high between the two countries.