Ukraine’s Independence Day Sees Intense Drone Barrage on Russia, Critical Infrastructure Targeted

On Ukraine’s Independence Day, a series of significant long-range drone strikes, attributed to Kyiv, targeted multiple locations deep within Russia. Among the most critical incidents, a drone strike in the Kursk region reportedly damaged a transformer at the Kursk Nuclear Power Plant, leading to a temporary 50% reduction in output from one reactor and a subsequent fire. While the blaze was extinguished and radiation levels were confirmed to be normal by the plant operator, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) promptly issued a warning, urging all parties to exercise restraint due to the inherent risks of combat near nuclear facilities.

Further escalating tensions, debris from intercepted drones ignited a fire at the Novatek fuel terminal in Ust-Luga, Russia’s Leningrad region. This terminal is a vital export hub, and the attack caused significant disruption. Additionally, flights were briefly suspended at airports in St. Petersburg, Samara, and Izhevsk following reports of more drones being shot down.

Addressing the nation from Kyiv’s Independence Square, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky delivered a defiant message, linking the day’s events to the ongoing struggle for sovereignty. “We are building a Ukraine that will have enough strength and power to live in security and peace,” Zelensky declared in a video address. “Ukraine has won its independence. Ukraine is not a victim, it is a fighter.”

Meanwhile, on the southern front, Ukraine’s military reported unfurling national flags in occupied towns within the Kherson region, a symbolic act reinforcing the country’s claim that “the Kherson region will forever remain part of Ukraine.” Western allies also used the occasion to reaffirm their steadfast support. The United Kingdom and Sweden raised Ukrainian flags, while Norway and Germany jointly announced a substantial new military aid package, including two Patriot air defense systems with associated missiles, radars, and short-range batteries, valued at approximately €650 million. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz praised Ukrainians for “most courageously defending themselves against Russia’s attacks,” emphasizing their fight for Europe’s liberal order and a just peace.

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