Ukrainian Intelligence Warns of Planned Russian Air Assaults: Seven Major Strikes Per Month

Statement by Ukraine's Foreign Minister

According to Главком: At the Antalya Diplomatic Forum, Ukraine's Foreign Minister, Andrii Sybiha, expressed grave concern over Russia's plans to intensify its aerial bombardment campaign against Ukraine. According to Ukrainian intelligence, Russia is preparing to launch massive, coordinated attacks at a regular frequency.

“In our current reality, a mass attack means no fewer than 400 drones combined with at least 20 missiles. And, based on intelligence, they are preparing to strike us seven times a month,” Sybiha stated.

This alarming forecast underscores the evolving nature of the air war, where Russia seeks to overwhelm Ukrainian air defenses through sheer volume.

Impact of Attacks on Ukrainian Cities

While Ukrainian air defenses (AD) have been highly effective, intercepting up to 90% of aerial targets during recent assaults, the remaining strikes continue to inflict severe damage. On the night of April 16, Russian forces targeted Dnipro, Kyiv, Odesa, and Kharkiv. In Kyiv, these attacks resulted in civilian fatalities and left more than 18 residents wounded. In Odesa, at least five people were injured, and the blast wave in the Primorskyi district shattered windows in multiple buildings.

The consequences in Dnipro were particularly severe: two people were killed, with victims suffering from traumatic brain injuries, shrapnel wounds, and acoustic trauma. One woman remains in critical condition. The strikes on Dnipro hit residential areas, damaging a five-story apartment building and partially destroying a private house. These events confirm fears of a worsening security situation for Ukraine's civilian population and highlight the critical need for enhanced protective measures.

The ongoing situation underscores the persistent threat from Russia and the immense security challenges facing Ukraine. The recent attacks, which led to civilian casualties, demonstrate the vital importance of continued international support to strengthen Ukrainian air defense capabilities. As new threats emerge, the global community must focus on providing Ukraine with the necessary assistance to protect its territory and citizens from further aggression.

The situation remains tense as new intelligence reveals a shift in the Kremlin's tactics, indicating an increase in the frequency of strikes against Ukraine. For a deeper understanding of these developments and their implications, explore how the planned assaults align with Russia's broader military strategy in our detailed coverage of the Kremlin's strategy for monthly attacks.