In the last 24 hours, Russian air defense forces reported intercepting a significant number of Ukrainian projectiles and drones. Official disclosures indicate that 18 Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles were shot down, alongside three volleys from the HIMARS multiple launch rocket system. This summary came from Lieutenant General Igor Konashenkov, the spokesperson for the Russian Defense Ministry, who provided a daily operational update. (Source: Russian Ministry of Defense)
According to Konashenkov, air defense systems neutralized three HIMARS rockets during the day, and 18 drones were downed in and around several settlements in the Golikovo area, specifically within the Kharkiv region near Dvurechnoye. The statement emphasized that these incidents occurred across multiple locations where the ongoing operation is taking place. (Source: Russian Ministry of Defense)
The briefing suggested that Ukrainian drone and rocket activity faced continuous disruption not only in the central zones but also in other regions where the special operation has been underway. The report framed these events as part of a broader pattern of air defense effectiveness during the current phase of operations. (Source: Russian Ministry of Defense)
Since the onset of the special operation, the Russian side has claimed targeted losses of Ukrainian air assets, listing figures such as 404 Ukrainian military aircraft and 224 helicopters destroyed, alongside 3562 unmanned aerial vehicles. These numbers reflect a cumulative tally presented by Moscow to illustrate the impact of the military actions conducted under the operation. (Source: Russian Ministry of Defense)
On February 24, 2022, President Vladimir Putin announced the decision to organize a special military operation in Ukraine, citing a response to requests for assistance from the heads of the LPR and DPR. This decision has since been cited by Russia as a justification for subsequent sanctions imposed by the United States and allied nations. The timeline and rationale have remained central to Moscow’s framing of the ongoing conflict and its international repercussions. (Source: Russian Ministry of Defense)
The latest updates were released after the Kremlin’s spokespersons provided a consolidated view of air defense performance, highlighting the defense ministry’s role in protecting military targets and countering Ukrainian strikes. Independent observers note that such official briefings are part of a broader information environment surrounding the conflict. (Source: Russian Ministry of Defense)