Russia Launches Largest Drone Attack on Ukraine
**As the third anniversary of the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia approaches, the latter has escalated its military aggression by executing its most extensive drone strike to date. On February 23, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky revealed that over 200 drones were unleashed in a single night, denouncing the attack as an act of “air terror.” He emphasized the resilience of the Ukrainian people, stating, “Our people stand against air terror every day,” and urged for solidarity among Ukraine’s allies.
In a stark reminder of the brutal realities of war, Zelensky noted that the drone assault comes in the wake of peace negotiations between the U.S. and Russia that excluded Ukraine. He mentioned, “On the eve of the third anniversary of the full-scale war, Russia launched 267 kamikaze drones against Ukraine, marking the largest offensive since Iranian drones began targeting our cities and villages.” This significant uptick in aggression highlights the continuing volatility of the situation.
Ukrainian Air Force Responds to Drone Attacks
The Ukrainian Air Force reported that during this latest assault, 138 drones were successfully intercepted, while an additional 119 drones were neutralized through electronic warfare measures, causing them to vanish from radar detection. Furthermore, three ballistic missiles were launched from Russian territory, resulting in damage across five Ukrainian regions. According to Reuters, Moscow has conducted near-nightly drone strikes against Ukraine for months, aiming to exhaust its air defense capabilities.
Zelensky provided a grim overview of Russia’s military activities, revealing that approximately 1,150 kamikaze drones, over 1,400 guided bombs, and 35 different missile types have been deployed against Ukraine in recent times. He expressed gratitude towards the personnel operating Ukraine’s air defense systems and reiterated the need for unity among international allies to secure a “fair and lasting peace.” Zelensky emphasized, “This can be achieved through the unity of all partners. We need the strength of all of Europe, the strength of America, and the strength of everyone who wants lasting peace.”
North Korea’s Ammunition Support for Russia
On the same day, Kyrylo Budanov, the head of Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence (GUR), revealed that North Korea has significantly contributed to Russia’s ammunition supplies, fulfilling 50% of its needs in the ongoing conflict against Ukraine. Assessments from both the U.S. and South Korea indicate that North Korea has dispatched thousands of troops to bolster Russian forces, marking Pyongyang’s most significant military involvement since the Korean War in the 1950s.
Budanov further disclosed that North Korean artillery systems, specifically the M1989 Koksan, have been identified in Krasnoyarsk, central Russia. He confirmed that North Korea has begun delivering 170 mm wheeled howitzers and 240 mm multiple rocket launchers to Russia. Additionally, he noted that North Korea has already supplied ballistic missiles and plans to deliver 148 units by 2025. This development underscores the deepening military collaboration between North Korea and Russia.
Russia’s Artillery Production Plans
Oleh Ivashchenko, Ukraine’s Chief of Foreign Intelligence, provided insights into Russia’s ambitious plans for artillery production, predicting that the country aims to manufacture over 7 million artillery and mortar shells by 2025. Ivashchenko highlighted that Russia is aware of its production capabilities, stating, “Russia produces significantly more than all European countries combined.” He also projected that Russia is expected to produce around 3,000 long-range missiles this year.
The prospect of such weaponry production raises concerns about the ongoing conflict’s escalation and the implications for regional security. As both Ukraine and its allies brace for potential further aggression, the necessity for strategic defense measures becomes increasingly critical.
