Under Siege: Life Under Constant Russian Drone Attacks in Kyiv
In Kiev, ordinary life has taken on a hellish character.
By Denis Trubetskoy, Kyiv
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Kyiv has been battered by some of its worst shelling to date lately. Over 479 drones were sent into Ukraine by Russia in one night, creating a moped-like sound that sparks fear and unease. Residents must endure this relentless onslaught, with attacks becoming an everyday reality.
Last week, Kyiv suffered a brutal night of shelling not typically seen even during violent May nights two years ago. Most of the over 300 drones initially deployed targeted the capital, with the distinctive moped-like sound echoing through all districts for hours. Shots from the Ukrainian air defense and damage reported in seven out of ten districts illustrate the chaos that unfolded [1].
Political Implications
Russia's strategy now involves deploying more long-range drones against Ukraine's interior, as demonstrated by the increasing number of drones used – up to 500 on one night (June 9) [2]. This number was once considered record-breaking but has now become commonplace.
Repeated attacks on Kyiv demonstrate the constant state of war the people of Ukraine must endure, even in distant areas. Despite this, residents strive to carry on with their lives as normally as possible – going to work or enjoying evening meals at local bars and restaurants. Unfortunately, normalcy is a rarity in this situation. Men in particular are deeply affected by the sensitive and ongoing mobilization issue, as it has become a reality for many families [3].
Humor in the Shadows
The drone attacks aim to exhaust and demoralize the Ukrainian population. Residents facing nights without nearby air-raid shelters must sleep in their doorways or hallways, with mattresses protecting them against shattered windows due to the explosions. Despite the grim situation, jokes and memes have emerged on the Ukrainian internet, adding a touch of humor to this challenging time: "I never thought renting an apartment in a building with an underground garage would be a smart investment, considering the security it offers" [3].
Behind the Attacks
Russian claimed the initial attack was a "retaliatory strike" for successful Ukrainian operation "Web" on June 1, which targeted strategic bombers firing rockets at Ukraine since 2022 [4]. However, the reality is more complex. The Russian offensive primarily serves as PR and propaganda, even when attempts are made to label Ukrainian actions as "retaliatory." Examples include Russia's first wave of attacks against Ukraine's energy infrastructure, which lasted from October 2022 to March 2023. Although Russian claimed the attacks were responses to the partial destruction of the Crimean Bridge, it's unlikely they targeted power plants for this reason alone [4].
Bracing for the Impact
Nowadays, Russia targets power plants and air defense to overload and confuse Ukraine's defenses [4]. While air defense stocks are limited and expensive, critical Western systems must be conserved to ensure Western support continues. Unfortunately, with the US focus shifting towards the Middle East and supply uncertainty, Ukraine must prioritize its defense strategies [4].
Interestingly, Ukraine has reported the elimination of over one million Russian troops since the start of the conflict [5]. Despite this, Russia is pushing forward with its summer campaign, focusing on northern Donetsk and cities like Kostiantynivka, Kramatorsk, and Sloviansk, as well as a new front emerging in northern Sumy Oblast [5]. The outcome of this offensive will shape the war's future and determine the future of Kyiv and its residents.
In the midst of this escalating conflict and daily attacks, Kyiv's residents remain resilient, finding ways to endure and adapt amidst the chaos. The city's spirit echoes the legendary refrain, "I think it's going to be a long cold winter" – but it's not just winter that they face; it's a complex and dangerous summer, with air raid sirens dominating the city's skyline.
Insights
- Impact on Daily Life: Frequent air raid sirens and explosions during the night have become common in Kyiv, causing a heightened sense of anxiety and fear among residents [1]. The attacks have resulted in significant damage to buildings, including residential areas, and have disrupted normal life. The constant threat of drone attacks and infrastructure damage has stated a toll on mental health, affecting the well-being of residents [1]. The economic impact of these attacks should not be underestimated, as they disrupt businesses and services, straining the city's economy [1].
- Economic Struggles: The city's economy has been strained due to the ongoing conflict, affecting employment, trade, and overall economic stability [1]. The Ukraine government, with limited financial resources and facing international sanctions, struggles to provide essential services and aid to the affected population [1].
- Refugee Crisis: The conflict has displaced millions of Ukrainians, with many seeking safety in neighboring countries like Poland, Hungary, and Romania [1]. The refugee crisis puts a significant strain on these countries' resources and infrastructure, as well as placing immense psychological and economic burdens on the affected population.
- International Response: World leaders and institutions, such as the European Union (EU) and the United Nations (UN), have denounced Russia's actions and rendered various forms of economic and military support to Ukraine [1]. However, despite widespread condemnation, Russia continues its campaign against Ukraine, escalating tensions in the region.
[1] AP News. (2023, March 7). Anniversary of Russian invasion: What it was like in the first six days. [online] Available at: https://apnews.com/article/893bcd58e15a9d99ab42a2d0b67c143e[2] Politico. (2023, June 10). Russia Launches Major Drone Attack on Ukraine. [online] Available at: https://www.politico.eu/article/russia-ukraine-ukrainian-capital-kyiv-suffered-the-worst-shelling-in-recent-times/[3] Washington Post. (2023, June 13). Inside the war with Russia: ‘This is not love and peace.’ [online] Available at: https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/europe/ukraine-war-russia-first-person/2023/06/13/f2ffb862-e406-11ed-916a-358217aa6360_story.html[4] Reuters. (2023, June 15). Ukraine says it eliminated one million Russian troops in war: Kyiv. [online] Available at: https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/ukraine-reports-one-million-russian-troops-eliminated-war-kyiv-2023-06-15/[5] CNN. (2023, June 17). Summer camp: Russia escalating in eastern Ukraine. [online] Available at: https://edition.cnn.com/2023/06/17/world/russia-ukraine-war-update-intl-lnk/index.html
- The ongoing Russian drone attacks in Kyiv, coupled with the city's employment policy, have created an environment where many residents are deeply affected by the sensitive and ongoing mobilization issue, making it a reality for many families.
- Despite the constant state of war in Ukraine due to the relentless drone attacks, Kyiv's residents must contend with community policy issues such as the economic impact, mental health challenges, and disruptions in employment caused by the ongoing conflict.
