In a resolute response to the night attack by the “Shaheds” in Ukraine, Ukrainian Air Force Commander Mykola Oleschuk proudly announced a significant achievement via Telegram. The Ukrainian forces successfully downed three Russian Su-34 strike aircraft in the southern sector. This bold retaliation unfolded in the wake of the ” Shaheds ” provocative actions on December 22.
Commander Oleschuk’s Defiant Response
Undeterred by the Ukrainian retaliation, the Russians displayed contempt in a message found on a fragment of a downed “Shahed,” stating, “Die, bitches.” Commander Oleschuk responded with sarcasm and confidence, declaring, “Great idea! Here’s our answer! Today, at noon, in the Southern sector – minus three Russian Su-34 fighter-bombers!” He concluded with a sardonic wish for “Eternal flight, ‘brothers’!”
Operational Details and Speculation
While operational details and the exact location of the successful interception remain undisclosed, speculation arises about using the Patriot anti-aircraft missile system to destroy the three aircraft. Social media buzz suggests this coordinated action may be part of a well-planned reconnaissance and air defence operation against Russian aggression.
This successful interception marks the 324th Russian plane shot down since the beginning of the full-scale invasion, showcasing the resilience of Ukrainian air defences. Simultaneously, Ukrainian troops have neutralized a comparable number of Russian helicopters, underlining the effectiveness of the Ukrainian military’s response.
In a related development, the Mayor of Mariupol reported Russia’s alarming plans to mobilize Ukrainian children born in 2007 for its invasion. Leaked conscript files and registration unveiled this disturbing strategy, shedding light on Russia’s attempts to widen the scope of the conflict.
Night Attack on Kyiv and Civilian Impact
Overnight on December 21-22, Russian troops launched an attack with 28 “Shaheds” from various locations. Ukrainian air defences successfully destroyed 24 out of 28 Iranian-made drones launched by Russia, causing injuries to two Kyiv residents. Air raid sirens and loud explosions echoed in Kyiv on December 21, prompting residents to seek shelter. A residential building in the Solomianskyi district was hit by a Shahed, causing injuries and damage. The Ukrainian military attributed the damage to apartment buildings to debris from a downed drone, emphasizing the indirect impact rather than a direct strike.
Yuriy Ihnat, the spokesperson for the Air Force, lauded the operation as “another brilliantly planned operation to destroy the enemy on the approaches to our state.” However, the fate of the six pilots/crew members remains undisclosed at publication.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many Russian planes have been shot down by Ukrainian forces since the beginning of the invasion?
Ukrainian forces have successfully shot down 324 Russian planes, highlighting the robustness of their air defences.
What is the Ukrainian military’s response to the Russian strategy of mobilizing Ukrainian children born in 2007?
The Ukrainian military has expressed concern and opposition to Russia’s plans to involve Ukrainian children born in 2007 in the invasion, revealing the extent of Russia’s aggressive tactics.
How many Iranian-made drones did Ukraine successfully destroy during the night attack on Kyiv?
Ukrainian air defences destroyed 24 out of 28 Iranian-made drones launched by Russia during the night attack on Kyiv, causing injuries to two residents.
What is the speculation regarding the Ukrainian forces’ successful interception of the three Russian Su-34s?
There is speculation about using the Patriot anti-aircraft missile system to destroy the three Russian Su-34s, indicating a well-planned reconnaissance and air defence operation by Ukrainian forces.