"Terror is the objective of the adversary," - Russian Government Official's Statement
In a persistent and escalating conflict, Russia continues to launch intensive attacks on civilian targets in Ukraine, primarily using large-scale coordinated strikes with hundreds of attack drones and cruise missiles during nighttime operations. These attacks, which have notably increased in recent months, have resulted in civilian casualties, damage to critical infrastructure, and the deployment of various countermeasures by Ukraine.
Overnight on July 11-12, Russia launched nearly 600 attack drones and 26 cruise missiles, targeting multiple Ukrainian cities, including Chernivtsi, Kyiv, Kharkiv, Lviv, and others. The attacks have caused numerous civilian deaths and injuries, as well as damage to electrical and administrative infrastructure. Russian tactics have included "double tap" attacks aimed at emergency responders and the use of cluster munitions with delayed detonations, increasing threats to both civilians and rescue workers.
In response, Ukraine has deployed a range of countermeasures. Ukraine’s military and air force systems have successfully intercepted a significant portion of incoming drones and missiles. For instance, over 300 drones and nearly all cruise missiles were shot down or electronically suppressed during the July 11-12 strike. Ukraine uses electronic warfare to disrupt and neutralize around 258 drones in the recent strikes, effectively reducing the number that reach their targets.
Ukraine's interceptor drone programs, such as the "Clean Sky" program, have also been instrumental in defending key areas like Kyiv Oblast, reportedly shooting down over 50 drones in recent overnight attacks. Ukraine continues to rely heavily on Western-supplied air defense systems, particularly U.S.-provided Patriot missile systems, which are vital in defending against ballistic missile and cruise missile strikes. President Zelenskyy has called for strengthening these defenses, and discussions with the U.S. about further Patriot system sales have been ongoing.
The overarching purpose of Russia’s sustained drone and missile strikes appears to be to degrade Ukrainian and Western morale and pressure Ukraine’s defenses. Meanwhile, Ukraine and its allies are intensifying efforts to improve air defense capabilities and electronic warfare to mitigate damage and protect civilians.
As the conflict continues, Ukrainian companies are developing weapons for individual soldiers to combat incoming drones, such as the 360-gram single-use "net-launcher" developed by Teneta and anti-drone bullets in 5.56mm caliber by Brave1. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expresses optimism about soon strengthening the country's air defense with new Patriot systems and interceptor drones.
The ongoing dynamic reflects a persistent effort by Russia to inflict damage and undermine morale through attacks on civilians, countered by Ukrainian and allied moves to bolster defensive capabilities and protect population centers. The conflict remains a significant concern for the international community, with various nations providing support and advocating for a peaceful resolution.
- Amidst the ongoing international concern, the community policy should address the escalating war-and-conflicts between Russia and Ukraine, particularly the persistent use of attack drones and cruise missiles by Russia, which have resulted in a need for extensive employment policies related to air defense and countermeasures.
- As politics surrounding the Ukraine conflict continue to unfold, general news outlets should emphasize not only the military operations and countermeasures but also the development of new weapons by Ukrainian companies, such as the "net-launcher" and anti-drone bullets, to support individual soldiers in defending against incoming drones, showcasing the resilience and determination of the Ukrainian people.
