Ukraine has launched attacks on eight Russian regions using long-range strike drones, targeting a fuel depot and power substations. The attacks, confirmed by the Russian Defense Ministry, are part of a renewed effort by Moscow to disable Ukraine's energy infrastructure. The Russian Defense Ministry reported that dozens of Ukrainian drones targeted regions including Belgorod, Bryansk, Kursk, Tula, Smolensk, Ryazan, Kaluga, and Moscow. At least three power substations and a fuel storage facility were damaged and caught fire.
The attacks were part of a joint operation by the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), Defence Intelligence, and the Special Operations Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. The energy infrastructure feeding Russian military-industrial facilities was the primary target, causing power and water supply disruptions in some areas.
Video footage shared on social media showed the aftermath of drone strikes on a fuel depot in Russia's Smolensk region, which resulted in a fire. Air defense forces successfully shot down the UAVs, with falling debris causing a fire in a fuel and lubricants tank. Crews from Russia's Ministry of Emergency Situations responded to the blaze.
The Russian Defense Ministry reported intercepting one drone over the Smolensk region and stated that its air defense systems had intercepted or destroyed 50 Ukrainian drones in the past day. In Bryansk, a downed Ukrainian UAV caused a fire at an energy infrastructure facility, with emergency crews working to ensure uninterrupted power supply to consumers.
Ukraine has been increasing drone attacks deep inside Russian territory, targeting energy infrastructure, oil refineries, terminals, and airfields. These attacks, made possible by drones with longer ranges and advanced capabilities, are part of a strategy to decrease Russian economic potential.
The situation on Ukraine's eastern front has worsened significantly, according to the military's top commander Oleksandr Syrskyi. Ukrainian soldiers are facing challenges on the frontline, awaiting a vote in the US House of Representatives that could unlock nearly $61 billion in military aid for Ukraine.
The aid package includes funds for replenishing US weapons, stockpiles, facilities, military operations in the region, and purchasing advanced weapons systems and defense equipment for Ukraine.
