A Ukrainian drone targeted a missile production facility deep in Russia, roughly 800 miles away, on Tuesday. This operation highlights Ukraine’s emphasis on drone production amid ongoing artillery warfare from Moscow.
According to the Ukrainian Security Services, the drone strike on the Kpol Electric Machinery Factory in Izhevsk resulted in at least three deaths and left 35 people injured.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized that drone warfare plays a crucial role in their conflict with Russia, noting the need for increased UAV production to counter the surge in airstrikes from Russian forces.
“Our main focus is on drones—specifically interceptor drones and long-range strike drones,” Zelensky mentioned on Telegram. “This is very important.” He also pointed out that Russia is ramping up its investment in drone technology, expecting to increase drone strikes against Ukraine. “We are preparing countermeasures,” he added.
This attack marks a new record for drone strikes within a single month during the ongoing war, following a staggering 5,438 drone attacks launched by Russia in June alone.
The heightened artillery fire from Russia has caused numerous civilian casualties, often affecting residential areas, hospitals, and critical infrastructure. This has drawn criticism from the United States.
The targeted facility is reportedly supplying anti-aircraft missiles for Russia, according to Ukrainian sources.
Retired Lt. Gen. Keith Kellogg, who served during Trump’s administration regarding Ukraine and Russia, criticized the attacks on Russian civilian areas, accusing President Vladimir Putin of obstructing peace efforts.
“We call for an immediate ceasefire and urge a move toward trilateral negotiations to resolve the conflict,” Kellogg stated on social media.
In addition to the strike in Izhevsk, the Russian Ministry of Defense reported that 60 Ukrainian drones were intercepted across the border in Crimea, Rostov, and Saratov regions.
Meanwhile, Russia launched four armed Iranian-made Shahed drones in the Zaporidia city area of southern Ukraine, as reported by local officials. Following that, Ukrainian Air Force officials confirmed another 52 drones were launched across the border on Tuesday.
