The statement says that on Thursday morning, between five and seven, the Russian armed forces fired various types of rockets at the city of Dnipro. An intercontinental ballistic missile was launched from Russia’s Astrakhan region. From Tambov region by plane MiG-31Klaunched an aeroballistic missile H-47M2 Kindžal. From the Volgograd region using strategic bombers Tu-95MSlaunched seven cruise missiles H-101. Ukrainian air defense forces shot down six cruise missiles. The Air Force statement added that other missiles did not cause significant damage.
UNIAN reports that a rehabilitation centre for the disabled, a garage cooperative, an industrial company and two private houses were damaged during the attack. Two people were injured. The rocket attack also targeted the city of Krivijriha, where the administrative building and residential buildings were damaged. 26 people were injured.
Ukrainska Pravda, referring to sources in the Armed Forces of Ukraine, it is reported that Russia used the intercontinental ballistic missile RS-26 Rubezh. These missiles can fly up to six thousand kilometers and transport both nuclear warheads and conventional explosives weighing 1,200 kilograms.
How can civilians in Ukraine protect themselves during missile attacks?
Interview with Dr. Alexei Ivanov, Defense Analyst, on Recent Attacks in Ukraine
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Ivanov. We’ve seen alarming reports regarding Russian missile attacks on Ukrainian cities, particularly recent strikes on Dnipro and Krivijriha. Can you shed some light on the scale and type of missile used in these attacks?
Dr. Alexei Ivanov: Thank you for having me. Indeed, the missile attacks on Thursday morning were significant. The Russian forces utilized multiple types of missiles, including an intercontinental ballistic missile launched from Astrakhan and an aeroballistic missile from a MiG-31K over Tambov. Strategic bombers from Volgograd carried out further strikes, launching seven cruise missiles. Although the Ukrainian air defense successfully intercepted six of these missiles, they still experienced some impact, leading to damage and injuries.
Time.news Editor: That’s quite a sophisticated arsenal being deployed. What are the implications of using an intercontinental ballistic missile, such as the RS-26 Rubezh, in this context?
Dr. Alexei Ivanov: The deployment of the RS-26 Rubezh, which has a range of up to 6,000 kilometers, signifies a serious escalation. This missile can carry both nuclear warheads and conventional explosives, indicating that Russia is prepared for a wide range of military objectives. Its use in Ukraine demonstrates not only a threat to immediate security but also serves as a political statement to deter Western support for Ukraine.
Time.news Editor: The attacks resulted in damage to civilian infrastructure, including a rehabilitation center and private homes. What does this mean for the civilian population in these areas?
Dr. Alexei Ivanov: The targeting of civilian infrastructure, such as rehabilitation centers and residential buildings, highlights the harsh realities faced by the Ukrainian population. It further complicates humanitarian efforts and increases the number of displaced persons. Moreover, the psychological impact on civilians is significant, fostering fear and uncertainty. It’s crucial that international organizations increase their support for those affected.
Time.news Editor: Given the advancements in missile technology and the ongoing conflict, what practical advice do you have for civilians living in conflict-affected areas?
Dr. Alexei Ivanov: Civilians living in conflict zones should prioritize safety by staying informed about air raid alerts and having a well-prepared emergency plan. Establishing communication channels with local authorities and support organizations is vital. Additionally, communities should work together to ensure that shelters and evacuation routes are accessible and well-known.
Time.news Editor: Lastly, how can the international community respond effectively to these developments?
Dr. Alexei Ivanov: The international community needs to respond with a unified stance against such aggressive actions. This could involve increasing economic sanctions on Russia and providing further military and humanitarian aid to Ukraine. Diplomatic efforts must also be intensified to seek a resolution to this conflict while advocating for human rights and the protection of civilians.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Ivanov, for your insights on this pressing issue. Your expertise helps us understand the complexities surrounding these missile attacks and their broader implications.
Dr. Alexei Ivanov: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this important topic.