Russia unleashes massive aerial and drone assault on Ukraine
Russia conducted a massive attack on Ukraine using long-range aviation and drones. The highest threat level was declared in Kyiv, and residents were advised to take shelter in bunkers. French journalist Andrei Vaitovich published a recording from the crowded metro in the capital, where Ukrainians took refuge.
Aug 26, 2024 | updated: 9:53 AM EDT, August 26, 2024
On Monday morning, Russia launched a significant assault on Ukraine utilizing long-range aviation and drones. The Ukrainian Air Force reported that 11 Russian strategic bombers and 60 Shahed and Gerber strike drones participated in the attack.
According to Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, 15 regions were affected. Representatives of the military authorities of the oblasts reported that at least four people died.
The Russian Ministry of Defense announced on Monday that they used high-precision weapons to strike Ukraine's energy infrastructure, "supporting the defense industry complex," as reported by Interfax and cited by Reuters. According to Russian authorities, the "massive" strike on energy facilities achieved "all targets," as reported by AFP.
Crowds of Ukrainians in the metro
An air raid alert was issued in Kyiv around 1 AM EST, and it is still ongoing. The highest threat level was also declared in the capital in the morning. Residents across the country were advised to hide in shelters.
French journalist Andrei Vaitovich published a recording from the Kyiv metro on X.
Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko reported that several districts of the capital experienced power outages as a result of the attack. Consequently, the water supply was also interrupted.
A video showing the aftermath of the strike on the Kyiv hydroelectric power plant dam appeared online.
Kyiv repelled attacks
The Kyiv City Military Administration announced that "cruise missiles approached Kyiv after complex maneuvers, in very tight groups from various directions."
"During the missile attack, the opponent fired several ballistic missiles toward the capital, including the 'Kinzhal' air-launched ballistic missile. Air defense forces and means destroyed about a dozen missiles (the type and number will be precisely reported by the Air Force)," the statement reads.
