Large-scale drone and missile attacks should be expected in near future – Expert
Illustrative photo: expert comments on whether Russia will launch a large-scale strike on Ukraine in the near future (Getty Images)
The Russian Federation has verified and confirmed intelligence information regarding the locations of Ukraine's infrastructure facilities. This is why, in recent times, enemy missiles have been targeting the country’s gas distribution and gas extraction sectors, states former spokesperson of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Vladyslav Seleznov, in a comment to RBC-Ukraine's YouTube channel.
According to him, at least 15 Tu-95 and Tu-160 bombers in Russia are currently on standby, ready to carry out a large-scale missile attack on Ukraine.
"Whether this will happen in the near future or there will be some pause, I don't know, of course. However, it is obvious that the Russians have the resources to conduct such combined missile and drone attacks. It is equally clear that the enemy has been targeting energy infrastructure facilities to deprive our citizens of electricity and adequate heating in their homes, creating the most unfavorable conditions for all our residents," Seleznov said.
In his opinion, Russia is likely trying to pressure the Ukrainian government into being more compliant when entering certain negotiation tracks. However, such actions by Russia should still be taken seriously, as Russian President Vladimir Putin acts in a way that aims to achieve a favorable outcome for himself at any cost.
This is why Russia is currently targeting facilities that have no connection to Ukraine's Defense Forces. Seleznov is confident that such incidents will continue in the near future, as weather conditions are not improving. Therefore, large-scale drone and missile attacks should be expected, including in the coming days.
"I believe the enemy should not be underestimated. They have verified and confirmed intelligence information regarding the locations of our infrastructure facilities. Recently, enemy missiles have been targeting the gas distribution and gas extraction sectors of our country," he said.
The enemy is likely looking for opportunities to strike at the exact moment when Ukraine is most vulnerable.
Night strike on Ukrainian territory
Last night, the Russian army carried out a combined strike on Ukrainian territory. Initially, the enemy launched drones and Kalibr cruise missiles, and by morning, information emerged about the threat of attack from Russian strategic aviation. As a result of the attack, the movement of Russian missiles was recorded heading towards the Poltava region.
Due to the attack, emergency power outages were implemented across Ukraine. Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko emphasized that Russia is once again attempting to target the country’s energy system.
During the night’s combined attack, 17 drones were shot down over the Cherkasy region. It is known that two people were injured as a result of the attack.
According to the Air Force, on the night of February 11, the Russian army launched 124 strike drones and up to 19 cruise missiles on Ukrainian territory.
