Russia's drone and bomber assault triggers mass sheltering in Kyiv
26 August 2024 14:03
Russia conducted a massive attack on Ukraine using long-range aviation and drones. In Kyiv, the highest threat level was announced, and residents were advised to take shelter in bunkers. French journalist Andrei Vaitovich published a recording from the overcrowded metro in the capital, where Ukrainians took refuge.
On Monday morning, Russia launched a massive attack on Ukraine using long-range aviation and drones. The Ukrainian Air Force reported early in the day that 11 Russian strategic bombers and 60 Shahed and Gerber-type strike drones participated in the attack.
According to Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, 15 regions were affected. Military representatives stated that at least four people were killed.
The Russian Ministry of Defence reported on Monday that they used high-precision weapons to strike Ukraine's energy infrastructure, "supporting the defence industry's facilities," according to Interfax, cited by Reuters. Russian authorities claimed that the "massive" strike on energy facilities achieved "all objectives," reported AFP.
Crowds of Ukrainians in the metro
Around 6 AM GMT (7 AM in Poland - Ed. note), an air raid alarm was announced in Kyiv, which is still in effect. The highest threat level was also declared in the capital in the morning. Residents nationwide were advised to take shelter in bunkers.
French journalist Andrei Vaitovich published a recording on the X portal from the Kyiv metro.
The Mayor of Kyiv, Vitali Klitschko, reported that the attack resulted in power outages in several districts of the capital and, consequently, water supply disruptions.
A video showing the aftermath of the strike on the Kyiv hydroelectric plant dam appeared online.
Kyiv repelled the attacks
The Kyiv City Military Administration reported that "cruise missiles approached Kyiv through complex manoeuvres, in very tight groups from different directions."
"During the attack, the enemy launched several ballistic missiles towards the capital, including the 'Dagger' airborne ballistic missile. Air defence forces and means destroyed around a dozen missiles (the exact type and number will be specified by the Air Force)," the statement reads.
