Russia has launched a large-scale drone and missile attack on Ukraine: MiG-31K fighters took to the skies
In the night of June 28-29, the Russian Federation carried out a massive attack on Ukraine, accompanied by extensive launches of unmanned aerial vehicles, cruise missiles, and bombers. The primary target of this offensive operation was the entire country, making it one of the most intense in recent times – with additional tactical elements such as MiG-31K fighters taking off from Russian airfields. According to Ukrainian military sources and officials in the Ukrainian Air Force, strategic and tactical MiG-31K fighters were observed taking off from the "Savasleika" base during the night. This raises heightened concerns, as these aircraft are typically used to transport and launch rare and high-precision "Kinzhal" missiles. It is important to note that Russia employs these aircraft for strikes on critical infrastructure objects in Ukrainian cities, as well as for neutralizing air defense systems. Prior to this, Moscow’s military forces launched a large-scale operation using unmanned aerial vehicles actively attacking Ukrainian territory. Participants in this extensive attack included various types of drones, notably the Iranian-made Shahed-136, capable of carrying significant explosive payloads and penetrating air defense systems. Additionally, the Russians launched Kalibr cruise missiles from ships and submarines in the Black Sea, creating an atmosphere of constant danger in many regions of Ukraine. Furthermore, Russian forces used Tu-95MS bombers, which took off from Olenya Air Base and other Russian facilities, launching cruise missiles towards Ukrainian targets almost simultaneously. The strike line covered several regions, and air raid alerts sounded everywhere: in Kyiv, Kharkiv, Lviv, Odesa, and other cities. As a result of this large-scale attack, Ukrainian air defense systems had to activate to intercept enemy targets and reduce damage. Overall, this night marked yet another demonstrative act of escalation in Russian aggression, confirming Moscow’s intention to deploy the most advanced and diverse means to pressure Ukraine. The takeoff of MiG-31K aircraft, combined with massive missile and drone attacks, demonstrates Russia’s aim to strengthen its military presence and increase its ability to strike at any moment, thereby causing Ukraine even greater tension and efforts to protect civilian populations and infrastructure. Local authorities continue to urge residents not to ignore air raid alerts and to be prepared for any scenario. Ukrainian military forces are actively working to enhance air defense systems to counter these new challenges, but Russian aggression remains a significant obstacle to the country’s defense capabilities.