Ukraine Claims Downing Russian Ballistic Missiles Amid Kyiv Attacks

Kathmandu. Ukraine has claimed to have shot down five ballistic missiles fired during Russian airstrikes overnight. According to the Ukrainian Air Force on Tuesday, some missiles and drones did hit the capital Kyiv, causing damage there.

For the first time in about two weeks, Ukraine has claimed to have successfully intercepted Russian ballistic missiles. Ballistic missiles are considered more difficult to intercept than drones or cruise missiles.

It is estimated that the Ukrainian air defense may have used the American-made 'Patriot' air defense system. Although this system is considered effective in stopping ballistic missiles, its interceptor missile supply has decreased due to the war with Iran.

According to Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko, the attack caused fires in two warehouses and damaged a school. The Russian Ministry of Defense claimed that the attack targeted military industries in Kyiv that produce long-range missiles and drones.

According to the Ukrainian Air Force, one ballistic missile and 25 drones fell in 17 locations, while debris from intercepted weapons fell in 10 locations.

As winter approaches, Ukraine is trying to further strengthen its air defense capabilities. Since Russia's invasion began in 2022, repeated missile attacks on energy infrastructure have caused significant damage to Ukraine's electricity system.

Meanwhile, Ukraine and nine other countries have joined an initiative to build a common ballistic missile defense system for Europe. President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed confidence that a low-cost air defense system can be developed with partner nations within the next 12 months.

Separately, Ukraine has continued long-range attacks on Russian oil infrastructure. According to local authorities, a fire broke out after an attack on the Afipsky oil refinery in Russia's southern Krasnodar region, which was later brought under control.

The Russian Ministry of Defense claimed that 288 Ukrainian drones were shot down overnight over various Russian regions, Crimea, and the Azov and Black Sea regions.