Ukraine’s air force has claimed its air defense systems intercepted five Russian ballistic missiles during a large-scale overnight attack, marking the first such reported interception in nearly two weeks.
Kyiv, Ukraine – Web Desk: According to Ukrainian military officials, although several missiles and drones penetrated Kyiv’s airspace, air defense units successfully destroyed five ballistic missiles, which are considered significantly more difficult to intercept than cruise missiles or drones.
Military analysts believe Ukraine may have used the US-made Patriot surface-to-air missile system, widely regarded as one of the most effective defenses against ballistic missile threats.
Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said the attack sparked fires at two warehouses and damaged a school in the capital. Emergency services responded to multiple locations affected by the strikes.
Meanwhile, Russia’s Ministry of Defence said its forces targeted military-industrial facilities in Kyiv involved in the production of long-range missiles and drones.
The Ukrainian Air Force said one ballistic missile and 25 drones struck 17 locations, while debris from intercepted aerial threats was reported at 10 additional sites. Independent verification of the battlefield claims from either side was not immediately available.
