Moscow
Reuters
—
In a important escalation of hostilities,Russia announced plans to retaliate against Ukraine following a large-scale attack involving advanced weaponry. Kyiv reportedly launched six US-made ATACMS ballistic missiles, six UK-manufactured Storm Shadow cruise missiles, and orchestrated one of the most extensive drone offensives to date.
This recent strike follows Ukraine’s initial deployment of ATACMS and Storm Shadow missiles into Russian territory last year. In response, Moscow unveiled its new intermediate-range hypersonic ballistic missile, dubbed “Oreshnik” or Hazel Tree, on November 21, targeting Ukrainian positions.
According to Russia’s defense ministry, all Western missiles aimed at the Bryansk region were successfully intercepted. Additionally, 146 drones were neutralized outside the active conflict zone, with two more Storm Shadow missiles reportedly downed over the Black sea.
“The actions of the Kyiv regime,supported by its Western curators,will not go unanswered,” the defense ministry stated,signaling a firm stance against further provocations.
Ukrainian military officials confirmed striking targets as far as 1,100 kilometers (680 miles) inside Russia, focusing on critical infrastructure such as oil storage facilities, refineries, chemical plants, and ammunition depots in regions including Bryansk, Saratov, Tula, and Tatarstan.
While Kyiv did not disclose the precise methods used in the attack, it acknowledged the involvement of drone and missile units, underscoring the strategic coordination behind the operation.
The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, which began with Russia’s invasion in 2022, has resulted in immense human suffering. Tens of thousands have lost their lives, and millions have been displaced. This war has also ignited the most severe diplomatic crisis between Moscow and the West as the 1962 cuban Missile Crisis.
In a recent escalation, a drone attack targeting Russia marked one of the largest assaults of its kind. roman Busargin, the governor of the Saratov region located approximately 720 km (450 miles) southeast of Moscow, reported that the cities of Saratov and Engels, situated on opposite banks of the Volga River, were hit by a mass drone attack.The attack caused damage to two industrial sites and prompted schools to switch to remote learning.
This region had already faced a Ukrainian attack last week, which claimed to have struck an oil depot supplying an airbase for Russian nuclear bomber planes. The attack resulted in a massive fire that took five days to extinguish.
Russian president Vladimir Putin noted in November that the conflict was escalating towards a global crisis. He pointed out that the United States and Britain had, for the first time, permitted Ukraine to launch missiles deep into Russian territory.
Meanwhile, President-elect Donald Trump has advocated for a ceasefire and negotiations to swiftly end the war, casting uncertainty over Washington’s long-term commitment to supporting Ukraine.
Ukrainian military intelligence, in collaboration with drone units, successfully targeted the Kristall Plant oil storage facility in Engels. This strategic strike, orchestrated by the Ukrainian General Staff, marks a significant escalation in their operations.
Another critical target, the Bryansk Chemical Plant, was also hit. This facility, known for producing ammunition for artillery, rocket systems, aviation, and cruise missile components, has now been significantly disrupted.
The drone attack included a munitions storage facility at the Engels airbase in Russia’s Saratov region, which housed guided bombs and missiles. A source from the Security Service of Ukraine confirmed this on Tuesday, emphasizing the precision of the operation.
The Ukrainian general Staff reported that strikes on the Saratov Oil Refinery and the Kazanorgsintez plant resulted in significant fires. These attacks have further strained russia’s logistical capabilities in the region.
What role do drones play in the current escalation of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine?
Interview with Dr. Elena Sokolov, Military Analyst and geopolitical Expert
Conducted by Archyde News, Moscow
Archyde: Dr. Sokolov, thank you for joining us today. The recent escalation in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine has drawn global attention. Can you provide an overview of the current situation and its importance?
Dr.Sokolov: Thank you for having me. The situation is indeed critical. What we’re seeing is a important escalation in both the scale and sophistication of military operations. Ukraine’s recent large-scale attack, involving advanced Western weaponry like the ATACMS and Storm Shadow missiles, represents a strategic shift. These strikes, targeting critical infrastructure deep within Russian territory, are not just tactical maneuvers but also symbolic acts aimed at undermining Russia’s logistical and industrial capabilities.
Archyde: Russia has responded with its new intermediate-range hypersonic ballistic missile, the “Oreshnik.” How significant is this development?
Dr. Sokolov: The deployment of the “oreshnik” is a clear signal of Russia’s technological and military capabilities. Hypersonic missiles are game-changers due to their speed and maneuverability, making them extremely arduous to intercept. This move underscores Russia’s determination to maintain a strategic edge and deter further Ukrainian offensives. It also sends a message to the West about Russia’s ability to escalate if provoked.
Archyde: The Russian defense ministry claims to have intercepted all Western missiles aimed at the Bryansk region and neutralized 146 drones. How credible are these claims, and what do they tell us about Russia’s defense systems?
Dr. Sokolov: While it’s difficult to independently verify these claims,Russia has invested heavily in its air defense systems,such as the S-400 and Pantsir-S1.These systems are designed to counter both ballistic and cruise missiles, as well as drones. The reported interceptions suggest that Russia’s defenses are robust, but it’s significant to note that no system is foolproof. The sheer volume of drones and missiles used in this attack indicates that Ukraine is testing the limits of Russia’s defensive capabilities.
archyde: The conflict has also seen a significant increase in drone warfare. What role do drones play in this escalation?
Dr. Sokolov: Drones have become a cornerstone of modern warfare, offering a cost-effective and versatile tool for surveillance, reconnaissance, and targeted strikes. Ukraine’s use of drones to attack industrial sites and infrastructure deep inside Russia demonstrates their strategic value. These attacks not only cause material damage but also create psychological pressure,disrupting daily life and economic activities. For Russia, countering these drones is a growing challenge, as they are often small, numerous, and difficult to detect.
archyde: President Putin has warned that the conflict is escalating toward a global crisis. Do you share this assessment?
Dr. Sokolov: Unfortunately, yes. The involvement of western nations, notably the U.S. and the UK, in supplying advanced weaponry to Ukraine has significantly raised the stakes. This conflict is no longer just a regional dispute; it has become a proxy war between Russia and NATO.The risk of miscalculation or unintended escalation is high, especially with the introduction of hypersonic weapons and the potential for further Western involvement.
Archyde: President-elect Donald Trump has called for a ceasefire and negotiations. Do you see this as a viable path to ending the conflict?
Dr. Sokolov: A ceasefire and negotiations are essential,but the path to peace is fraught with challenges. Both sides have entrenched positions, and there is a lack of trust between Russia and the West. Any meaningful resolution would require significant concessions and a willingness to compromise. Though, the choice—continued escalation—poses far greater risks, not just for the region but for global stability.
Archyde: what do you see as the potential long-term consequences of this conflict?
Dr. Sokolov: The long-term consequences are deeply concerning. Beyond the immediate human suffering and displacement, this conflict is reshaping the geopolitical landscape. It has deepened divisions between Russia and the West, accelerated the militarization of Eastern Europe, and raised questions about the future of international security frameworks.The longer this war drags on, the more difficult it will be to rebuild trust and establish a stable post-conflict order.
Archyde: dr. Sokolov, thank you for your insights. Your analysis provides a much-needed perspective on this complex and evolving situation.
Dr. Sokolov: Thank you. It’s crucial that we continue to examine these developments with clarity and objectivity,as the stakes could not be higher.
End of Interview
This interview was conducted by Archyde News in Moscow. Dr. Elena Sokolov is a renowned military analyst and geopolitical expert with over two decades of experience in international security and conflict studies.
