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Russia Launches Massive Drone and Missile Attack on Ukraine, Targeting Energy Infrastructure
Kyiv, Ukraine – February 17, 2024 – Russia launched a large-scale combined drone and missile attack on Ukraine today, February 17, 2024, targeting critical energy infrastructure. The attack involved a diverse arsenal of weaponry,including ballistic and cruise missiles,and also a significant number of Shahed drones.
According to the Ukrainian Air Force, the assault comprised four Iskander-M ballistic missiles, 20 Kh-101/Kh-555 cruise missiles, four Iskander-K cruise missiles, and one Kh-59/69 guided aviation missile. Approximately 250 of the 396 drones launched were identified as Shahed-type attack drones. Ukrainian air defenses intercepted 25 missiles and 367 drones. However, several projectiles evaded defenses, resulting in impacts across the country.
Reports indicate that four ballistic missiles and 18 drones reached their targets. Odesa was particularly affected, experiencing disruptions to heating and water supplies. Damage to railway infrastructure was also reported. Nine people were injured as a result of the attacks.
the attack prompted Poland to scramble its air force as a precautionary measure, demonstrating regional concerns about escalation.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the attacks, stating that Russia is deliberately targeting Ukraine’s energy sector to inflict maximum damage. He emphasized the need to confront the source of aggression,identifying Moscow as responsible for the ongoing violence. “For peace to be truly just, we must confront the sole source of aggression, because it is Moscow that continues the killings, massive attacks, and strikes,” zelenskyy stated.
this latest assault represents a significant escalation in Russia’s ongoing campaign against Ukraine,continuing a pattern of attacks on civilian infrastructure. Ukraine continues to appeal to its international partners for increased air defense assistance to bolster its defensive capabilities.
Primary Topic: Russian attack on Ukraine
Primary Keyword: Ukraine war
Secondary Keywords: Russia, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, missile attack, drone attack, energy infrastructure, Odesa, air defense, iskander, Shahed drones, Poland.
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