What's happened
On August 27, 2024, Russia intensified its aerial assault on Ukraine, launching a significant wave of drones and missiles that resulted in at least four fatalities. This follows a series of attacks targeting energy infrastructure, prompting emergency blackouts across the nation as Ukraine's air defenses struggled to intercept the onslaught.
What's behind the headline?
Impact on Civilian Life
- The recent strikes have resulted in civilian casualties, with at least four reported deaths and numerous injuries.
- Emergency blackouts are being implemented nationwide, disrupting not only electricity but also water supplies in affected regions.
Military Implications
- Ukraine's air force claims to have intercepted a significant portion of the incoming missiles and drones, but the effectiveness of these defenses is under scrutiny.
- The attacks may signal a shift in Russia's military strategy, potentially escalating the conflict further.
International Response
- Ukraine's leadership is calling for increased military support from allies, emphasizing the need for long-range weapons to counter Russian strikes.
- The attacks have drawn condemnation from Western nations, which may lead to further sanctions or military aid for Ukraine.
What the papers say
According to The Moscow Times, the recent drone and missile strikes have been described as some of the largest since the war began, with Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal stating that 15 of Ukraine's 24 regions were affected. The New York Times highlighted the targeting of energy infrastructure, noting that the attacks are part of a broader strategy to cripple Ukraine's military capabilities. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized the need for a decisive response to what he termed 'crimes against humanity.' This sentiment reflects a growing urgency for international support as Ukraine faces ongoing aggression from Russia.
How we got here
Since the onset of the conflict in February 2022, Russia has conducted numerous large-scale drone and missile strikes against Ukraine, particularly targeting energy facilities. The recent attacks coincide with Ukraine's Independence Day celebrations, raising concerns about heightened military aggression.
Go deeper
- What are the latest developments in the Ukraine conflict?
- How is Ukraine responding to the recent attacks?
- What support is Ukraine receiving from its allies?
More on these topics
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Russia, or the Russian Federation, is a transcontinental country located in Eastern Europe and Northern Asia. Covering an area of 17,125,200 square kilometres, it is the largest country in the world by area, spanning more than one-eighth of the Earth's in
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Ukraine is a country in Eastern Europe. It is the second-largest European country after Russia, which borders it to the east and northeast.
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Denys Anatoliyovych Shmyhal (Ukrainian: Денис Анатолійович Шмигаль; born 15 October 1975) is a Ukrainian entrepreneur and politician who is the Prime Minister of Ukraine since 4 March 2020.Shmyhal serving as the country’s Prime M
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The Moscow Times is an English-language online-only newspaper based in Moscow. It was in print from 1992 until 2017, with a peak circulation of 55,000.