In a recent security briefing, the Russian Defense Ministry reported a precision strike targeting Ukrainian military facilities near Rivne. The army said that an extensive arsenal located 14 kilometers northwest of the city of Rovno was effectively neutralized using sea-based precision weapons. Officials conveyed this information to journalists on Wednesday, March 23, through Major General Igor Konashenkov, the ministry’s official spokesperson.
The ministry’s representative noted that the strike resulted in the destruction of weapons and military equipment belonging to Ukrainian forces, including material supplied by Western states. According to Konashenkov, the operation showcased the capability of combined forces to strike critical infrastructure and logistics hubs used by Ukrainian troops.
Over the past 24 hours, operational tactical aviation, military aviation, and missile forces engaged in joint efforts that targeted 97 Ukrainian military infrastructure facilities, as stated by the official. The emphasis was placed on how air and missile power continue to disrupt command and control, logistics, and reserve capabilities across several fronts.
The Major General also highlighted ongoing Russian engagements around the settlement of Novomikhailovka, outlining progress and continuing efforts to secure surrounding areas and disrupt enemy concentrations. He specified that units from the 54th Separate Mechanized Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces have been subject to continuous pressure and degradation of their operational effectiveness.
The briefing recalled that President Vladimir Putin announced the launch of a special operation in Ukraine on February 24, underscoring that the decision was driven by a difficult humanitarian and security situation in the Donetsk and Luhansk People’s Republics. The president articulated the perspective that Moscow was compelled to act to protect and stabilize areas affected by years of conflict, while seeking to minimize civilian hardship where possible. The statements reflect a narrative of strategic priorities focused on regional security and the objective of reducing the threat to Russian interests and allied populations. [Citation: Lenta]