Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has stated that his country “needs more air defense systems” to protect its people, as Russia continues targeting Ukraine with aerial bombs, combat drones, and missiles.
“The strongest protection of our skies is absolutely critical,” Zelensky said, adding that Kyiv is actively working with its partners to enhance the country’s air defenses.
According to Zelensky, Russia launched over 800 aerial bombs, conducted around 460 drone attacks, and fired approximately 20 different types of missiles against Ukraine just last week.
Both Ukraine and Russia reported on November 24 that they had repelled several drone attacks overnight. No injuries have been reported on either side.
Serhiy Popko, head of Kyiv’s military administration, said the air raid alert lasted more than three hours, with drones “moving in various directions” across the city.
In August, Ukrainian forces conducted a surprise incursion in Russia’s Kursk region, seizing control of 1,400 square kilometers. However, a source from Ukraine’s military has since reported that Kyiv has lost 40% of the territory it once controlled in Kursk.
The United States and the United Kingdom have reportedly granted Ukraine permission to strike deep into Russia using ATACMS missile systems and Storm Shadow missiles, respectively.
These missiles are precise tactical weapons designed to hit command centers, logistics hubs, and weapons depots near the battlefield. Ukraine has already used these weapons to launch attacks in the Kursk and neighboring Belgorod regions.
France has joined the U.S. and the UK, signaling that Ukraine may use long-range weapons against targets within Russian territory. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot told the BBC that Ukraine could launch French long-range missiles into Russia “for self-defense.” However, he did not confirm whether French weapons have already been used.
On the other hand, Russia has strongly condemned the use of these weapons and pledged to carry out strikes using advanced missiles, while also updating its nuclear doctrine.
Background on the War in Ukraine
The war in Ukraine began on February 24, 2022. Russian President Vladimir Putin describes the conflict as a “special military operation” aimed at demilitarizing Ukraine.
Western nations have responded to Russia’s aggression with severe sanctions, targeting its economy.
The war has claimed thousands of lives and displaced millions from their homes.
