In one of the largest drone attacks on Moscow since the conflict began, Ukraine fired 11 drones at the Russian capital on Wednesday. Russia’s defense ministry confirmed that all the drones were shot down before causing any damage or casualties.
Moscow’s mayor, Sergei Sobyanin, described the incident as one of the most significant attempts to attack the city using drones. He assured the public that the situation was under control, and no harm was reported.
This drone strike is part of a broader Ukrainian offensive in Russia’s Kursk region. Ukrainian authorities have stated that their goal is to bring the ongoing conflict, which started in February 2022, to an end on “fair” terms. Since August 6, Ukraine has claimed control over more than 80 settlements in the Kursk region, marking a significant push into Russian territory.
In response to these drone attacks, Russian air defense systems reportedly destroyed a total of 45 Ukrainian drones. The Russian defense ministry stated that these measures were necessary to protect the country’s infrastructure and population from further attacks.
While Moscow faced drone attacks, Ukraine also had to defend itself from a massive onslaught. Ukrainian Air Force Commander Mykola Oleshchuk reported that on the night from Tuesday to Wednesday, 72 air targets were detected over Ukraine. Out of these, Ukrainian forces successfully shot down 50 drones and a guided missile. The capital city of Kyiv was one of the main targets during these attacks.
Kyiv’s military administration reported that the air raid lasted more than nine hours, during which a private house was damaged by debris from the downed drones, and power lines were severed.
This recent exchange of attacks highlights the ongoing tension between the two countries. Ukraine has been increasing its cross-border assaults, targeting Russia’s oil and gas facilities. On Sunday, Ukrainian drones attacked an oil storage facility in Russia’s southern Rostov region, causing a large fire that was still burning as of Wednesday.
Amid these escalating tensions, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Ukraine on August 23. His visit is seen as a significant diplomatic move, underscoring India’s commitment to promoting peace and stability in the region. India’s role in this conflict has been one of advocating for dialogue and peaceful resolution, and PM Modi’s visit is expected to reinforce this stance.
The visit is likely to have a positive impact on the ongoing conflict, as India’s influence and leadership in the global arena could encourage both Russia and Ukraine to consider peaceful negotiations. PM Modi’s presence in Ukraine sends a strong message of support for diplomatic solutions, and his visit is anticipated to strengthen India’s position as a key mediator in international conflicts.
Earlier this month, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky praised his forces for hitting oil facilities in Russia, stating that the attacks would help bring a “just end” to the conflict. With PM Modi’s upcoming visit, there is renewed hope that India’s involvement could pave the way for a peaceful resolution that aligns with Ukraine’s goals of ending the conflict on fair terms.
As the conflict continues, the international community looks to India as a potential bridge between the warring nations. PM Modi’s visit could mark a turning point in the war, emphasizing India’s positive influence and its unwavering support for peace and stability in the region.
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