Russian Strike on Ukrainian Army Base Likely to Have Caused Mass Casualties

Russian Strike on Ukrainian Army Base Likely to Have Caused Mass Casualties

Missile Attack on Military Training Facility

A Russian ballistic missile strike on a Ukrainian military training base in the Dnipropetrovsk region may have resulted in the deaths of dozens of Ukrainian soldiers. Although the Ukrainian authorities did not immediately confirm the attack, sources on Monday acknowledged that the training ground had been hit.

Russia’s Claims of Casualties

The Russian Ministry of Defense has reported that as many as 150 Ukrainian soldiers and 30 foreign instructors were killed in the attack. The strike, which occurred on Saturday, is believed to have been carried out using an Iskander-M operational-tactical missile.

Ukraine Acknowledges Impact, Launches Investigation

While the Ukrainian authorities have not yet confirmed the exact number of casualties, Mykhailo Drapatyi, the commander of Ukraine's Ground Forces, described the strike as having "terrible consequences." He assured that an investigation was underway to determine the cause of the strike and any potential accountability for those responsible for the high death toll. Drapatyi emphasized that those responsible for the casualties would be held accountable, stating that no one would be able to avoid responsibility under any circumstances.

The Attack's Location and the Impact on Ukrainian Forces

Reports indicate that the Novomoskovsk training ground was the primary target of the strike, where soldiers from the 157th Separate Mechanized Brigade were stationed at the time. Following the attack, Ukrainian authorities are working to assess the full scale of the damage.

Zelensky Calls for an End to "Air Terror"

In response to the ongoing conflict, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned Russia's continued missile and drone strikes on Ukraine. Zelenskyy called for an end to what he referred to as Russia's "air terror," urging that if Russia truly desires peace talks, it must cease targeting Ukrainian civilians and military personnel with ballistic missiles. He highlighted the significant toll Russia's strikes have taken over the past week, including the launch of over 1,050 attack drones and 1,300 bombs.

Ongoing War Efforts and International Reactions

As the war persists, international reactions continue to reflect deep divisions on the matter. Ukraine remains steadfast in its efforts to defend its sovereignty and calls for a fair and lasting peace while condemning the aggressive actions taken by Russia. The Ukrainian government has pledged to continue its fight for the safety and well-being of its citizens amidst the ongoing airstrikes.