Russia has launched a record-breaking 6,443 drones and missiles into Ukraine in July, according to Ukrainian air force data. This marks the highest number of drone and missile attacks on Ukraine since the start of the war in February 2022.
The scale of Russia’s nightly strikes has been steadily increasing, with Ukrainians spending more time in bomb shelters than ever before. The Iranian-designed Shahed strike drone, adopted by the Russian military, is the workhorse of Moscow’s nightly harassment of Ukrainian cities and vital infrastructure.
The drone attacks have been devastating, killing 232 civilians and injuring 1,343 people in June, according to UN data. Despite Ukraine’s significant interception rate, many projectiles arrive with deadly effect.
Russia has also increased its missile launches, with over 198 missiles fired into Ukraine in July, at an average of six per day. While Ukraine has downed or suppressed around 89% of drones and 61% of missiles, the attacks remain a major problem for Ukrainian air defenses.
Analysts warn that Russia’s growing drone production capability will have long-term implications for Europe. The ability to produce and stockpile these weapons in large numbers poses a significant threat.
Ukrainian forces have launched their own drone attacks into Russia, but with limited success. Russian officials continue to tout their growing drone production capabilities, despite the ongoing conflict.
The situation remains dire, with no signs of respite from Moscow’s nightly strikes. The international community is left to weigh its response to this escalating crisis.
Source: https://abcnews.go.com/International/russia-launches-6400-drones-missiles-ukraine-record-breaking/story?id=124201916