In a significant and dangerous escalation of the ongoing conflict, Russia has conducted a massive wave of retaliatory military strikes across Ukraine over the past week. The operation, which Moscow claims is a direct response to attempted attacks on its territory, involved the use of advanced high-precision weaponry, including the formidable Kinzhal hypersonic missiles.
Retaliation for Alleged Terrorist Attacks
The Russian Ministry of Defence officially stated that the strikes were carried out in response to what it labels as Kyiv's "terrorist attacks" on civilian targets inside Russia. This justification points to a series of recent incidents that have heightened tensions, including two reported assassination attempts on President Vladimir Putin. The Russian military's response has been extensive and sustained.
Scale and Targets of the Assault
According to detailed reports from Russian defence officials, the offensive consisted of one large-scale strike and six group strikes conducted over seven days. The campaign aimed at crippling Ukraine's military logistics and production capabilities. Key targets reportedly destroyed or damaged include:
- Factories involved in the production of long-range attack drones.
- Strategic storage depots for arms, ammunition, and fuel.
- Critical transportation hubs and port infrastructure.
- Temporary deployment sites for Ukrainian armed forces and foreign military personnel.
The use of the Kinzhal (Dagger) hypersonic missile is particularly notable. This air-launched ballistic missile is capable of evading most modern air defence systems due to its high speed and manoeuvrability, making it a potent symbol of this escalated phase of warfare.
Fears of a New, More Destructive Phase
This sustained, week-long bombardment marks one of the most intense periods of long-range strikes in recent months. Security analysts warn that the conflict is potentially entering an even more destructive and volatile phase. The shift towards targeting production and deep logistical chains, coupled with the explicit linkage to assassination attempts on Russia's leadership, suggests a hardening of Moscow's stance and a willingness to employ its most advanced arsenal.
The international community watches with growing concern as these events unfold. The strikes underscore the grim reality of a war with no immediate end in sight, where retaliatory actions threaten to spiral into further cycles of violence, deepening the humanitarian and infrastructural crisis in Ukraine.
