In a significant escalation of cross-border tensions, Ukrainian forces launched a series of drone attacks on multiple Russian regions during the night of August 24, 2024. The Russian Ministry of Defense reported intercepting and destroying seven Ukrainian drones over the territories of Voronezh, Belgorod, and Bryansk regions.The most severe impact was felt in the Voronezh region, where five drones were reportedly shot down. However, falling debris from the downed drones caused a fire at an ammunition warehouse in the Ostrogozhsky district, leading to subsequent explosions. Governor Alexander Gusev declared a state of emergency in three settlements of the district. ‘As a result of the falling fragments, a fire started, causing the detonation of explosive objects,’ Gusev stated.The incident resulted in the evacuation of approximately 200 people from one village and one settlement. Two people were reported injured, with one woman hospitalized in serious condition. The attacks also damaged power lines, potentially causing outages in nearby areas.In the Belgorod region, Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov reported that two civilians were injured in separate drone incidents. The Bryansk region also came under attack, though no casualties or significant damage were reported there.These attacks mark a notable escalation in Ukraine’s cross-border operations. Some sources suggest that Ukraine may be using newly developed long-range ‘Neptune’ missiles, capable of targeting ground objectives. However, this information has not been independently verified.The Russian side has warned of potential retaliation. Vladimir Saldo, the Russian-appointed governor of the occupied part of Ukraine’s Kherson region, claimed that Ukraine is planning a counteroffensive, possibly coinciding with Ukraine’s Independence Day.As tensions continue to rise, both sides are trading accusations of provocations and threats of further military action. The situation remains volatile, with potential for further escalation in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
Key points
- Ukrainian forces launched multiple drone attacks on Russian border regions, including Voronezh, Belgorod, and Bryansk.
- An ammunition warehouse in Voronezh region exploded after being hit by drone debris, leading to evacuations and injuries.
- Russian officials warn of potential retaliation and claim Ukraine is planning a counteroffensive.
Contradictions👾While most sources report seven drones shot down by Russian forces, one source suggests the use of newly developed long-range ‘Neptune’ missiles by Ukraine, which has not been corroborated by other reports.
