Kathmandu— Russian forces conducted a large-scale strike against drone and missile production plants, as well as related infrastructure, in Kyiv and the surrounding region, according to a statement from the Russian Defense Ministry. The overnight raid utilized ground-, air-, and sea-launched missiles alongside attack drones, targeting facilities involved in the manufacturing of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and cruise missile components. Ukraine reported 12 deaths and over 30 injuries as a result of the bombardment, while Russia claims to have intercepted a significant wave of Ukrainian drone attacks on its own territory.

Targets Included Drone Production Hubs

The Russian Defense Ministry identified several key facilities struck during the operation. Among them was an industrial facility belonging to weapons maker Fire Point, which Moscow alleges manufactures components for long- and medium-range drones and assembles boosters for Flamingo cruise missiles. The ministry also stated that the Antonov aviation plant, responsible for designing and producing An-196 Liutyi long-range fixed-wing drones, was targeted.

A large warehouse used for UAV manufacturing and storage, an aviation industry assembly plant, and an arms depot containing vacuum bombs, anti-tank mines, and ammunition for Baba Yaga drones were also reportedly hit within the Ukrainian capital.

Logistics and Fuel Depots Also Struck

Beyond production facilities, Russian forces targeted logistical infrastructure supporting Ukraine’s military. The Martusovka logistics center in Kyiv Region, used to store dual-use goods including those intended for UAV and electronic warfare system production, was struck by missiles and drones.

A fuel and lubricants depot near Brovary, east of Kyiv, containing up to 8,000 cubic meters of fuel intended for the Ukrainian military, was also reportedly destroyed in the attack.

Ukraine Reports Casualties, Russia Claims Drone Interceptions

The Ukrainian Emergencies Ministry reported that 12 people were killed and more than 30 wounded as a result of the bombardment. Simultaneously, the Russian Defense Ministry claimed its air defenses had intercepted and destroyed 726 Ukrainian UAVs across 20 regions of Russia overnight. Moscow has characterized these drone incursions as terrorist attacks targeting civilian infrastructure and residential areas.

Moscow Justifies Strikes as Retaliation

Russian officials maintain that the intensification of long-range missile and drone strikes against targets in Ukraine is a response to Ukrainian drone attacks on Russian territory. They claim these actions are intended to compensate for setbacks experienced by Ukrainian forces on the battlefield, where Russian forces continue their advance. Moscow insists its strikes are directed solely at military targets and infrastructure supporting Kyiv’s forces.

The situation remains tense as both sides continue to engage in long-range strikes, with Russia claiming its actions are retaliatory and focused on military objectives while Ukraine reports civilian casualties.

(With inputs from RT)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.