The Lipetsk region in Russia recently experienced a significant Ukrainian drone attack, causing damage to energy infrastructure and leading to the evacuation of residents in certain areas. The assault resulted in at least nine individuals sustaining injuries, as reported by Lipetsk governor Igor Artamonov on Friday via Telegram.
This attack follows Russia's allegations of Ukrainian troops crossing the border into the Kursk region earlier in the week, marking the first such incursion from Ukraine into this relatively peaceful area in over two years.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky acknowledged the offensive, emphasizing that Russia must face the consequences of its invasion of Ukraine. The attack on Lipetsk, which is deeper into Russian territory than Kursk, targeted an airfield, destroying an ammunition depot with over 700 guided bombs in a coordinated operation involving the Ukrainian military, security service, and special forces.
Russia's defense ministry reported intercepting and destroying 75 'aircraft-type' drones, with significant numbers over Lipetsk, Belgorod, Kursk, and other regions. The ongoing assault by Ukraine on Russia aims to divert Russian forces from other fronts and disrupt their operations.
While some Western officials have expressed concerns about provoking Russian escalation, others have supported Ukraine's right to defend itself, including striking aggressors on its territory. The European Union and the US have acknowledged Ukraine's legal right to self-defense.
The situation in the Lipetsk region underscores the escalating tensions between Ukraine and Russia, with both sides engaging in cross-border attacks and military operations. The international community continues to monitor the developments closely as the conflict shows no signs of abating.
