Kyiv: Ukraine launched an overnight attack on Russian regions, striking with drones and missiles, according to officials and local media. Damage to two factories was reported, and schools in a southern Russian city transitioned to remote learning.
Russia reportedly intercepted over 200 Ukrainian drones and five US-made ATACMS ballistic missiles, the Shot Telegram channel stated. Bryansk region Governor Alexander Bogomaz described the missile attack as significant, though he didn’t specify the missiles used.
Key Locations Targeted
Engels, home to Russia’s nuclear bombers, saw a factory hit by a drone, Saratov Governor Roman Busargin confirmed. While providing no further details, Busargin announced remote learning for schools in Engels and Saratov.
Other cities also experienced disruptions, with flight restrictions imposed in Kazan, Saratov, Penza, Ulyanovsk, and Nizhnekamsk. Alarms reportedly sounded at the Taneco refinery in Tatarstan, though this couldn’t be independently verified.
Moscow’s Response to Escalating Conflict
Russian President Vladimir Putin said the Ukraine war risks escalating into a global conflict due to Western weapons supplied to Kyiv. Moscow launched a new intermediate-range hypersonic missile, “Oreshnik” (Hazel Tree), targeting Ukraine on November 21 as a retaliatory measure.
Putin criticized the United States and Britain for enabling Ukraine to strike Russia, warning of possible Russian countermeasures. The Kremlin sees these developments as a shift toward heightened tensions between East and West.
Implications for Peace Efforts
President-elect Donald Trump called for a ceasefire and negotiations to end the war swiftly. His position raises questions about Washington’s long-term support for Kyiv.
Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine has left tens of thousands dead, displaced millions, and deepened global divides. It marks the most severe crisis between Moscow and Western powers since the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis.
Observers suggest both sides face mounting pressure for peace amid continued escalation. However, paths to resolution remain uncertain as heavy strikes and retaliatory measures persist.
