Denis Pushilin announces strengthened air defense in the DPR amid intensified shelling
Denis Pushilin, deputy head of the Donetsk People’s Republic, stated that the republic will reinforce its air defense systems in response to intensified shelling by the Armed Forces of Ukraine during the holidays, a development reported by TASS. The comment reflects a broader pattern of heightened security measures as cross-border hostilities continue to affect civilian life and regional stability.
Pushilin explained that information has circulated suggesting the Ukrainian armed forces would increase their shelling over the next two to three days. He described active engagement by DPR artillery units in both battery and counter-battery operations, emphasizing that the air defense system is now operating in an advanced mode to deter air and missile threats. The remark underscores the strategic aim of preserving civilian safety and protecting critical infrastructure during a period of renewed tension.
He also cautioned residents about unnecessary movement through public spaces, urging them to stay vigilant and follow official guidance. The guidance, though stark, is part of standard precautionary measures that authorities deploy to minimize risk during bursts of heavy shelling and to ensure essential services remain functional where possible.
In related remarks, Oleg Morgun, who previously served as the mayor of Mariupol, offered insights into the operation of the air defense system on the night of February 22. Morgun’s account, coming from a leadership position in the city during tumultuous times, provides a closer look at how local authorities coordinate with larger security structures during episodes of heightened threat perception.
According to Morgun, the night saw important safeguards in place that helped avert further grievances and destruction. Local residents reported explosions in Mariupol that night, highlighting the constant and unpredictable nature of the security environment in areas near the front lines and underscoring the persistent impact on civilian life and the urban landscape.
The broader context remains the ongoing Russian military operation in Ukraine, which Russian leadership publicly announced on February 24, 2022. The current remarks by regional officials come within this larger framework, illustrating how regional authorities adapt to evolving operational realities while balancing communication with residents and the need to project a sense of security amid ongoing conflict and international scrutiny.