Ukraine Unleashes Largest Offensive of the War, Striking Deep Into Russian Territory
Ukraine has launched its most extensive operation since the war began, targeting key sites deep within Russian borders. According to the General Staff of Ukraine’s Armed Forces, the overnight attacks hit ammunition depots, chemical plants, and other critical infrastructure in several regions, some as far as 1,100 kilometers (700 miles) from the border.
Sources within Ukraine’s SBU intelligence agency described the operation as a “severe blow” to Russia’s war capabilities. The BBC reports that Russia claims to have intercepted US-supplied Atacms missiles and UK-made Storm Shadow cruise missiles, promising retaliation for the strikes.
Widespread Disruption in Russia
At least nine airports across central and western Russia temporarily suspended operations, while schools in the southwestern Saratov region closed due to the attacks.
One of the most significant strikes occurred in Bryansk, near the Ukrainian border. Explosions were reported at a refinery, ammunition depots, and a chemical plant manufacturing explosives, according to Ukrainian sources.
Further afield, the Saratov region experienced a “massive” drone assault, with industrial facilities in Engels and Saratov sustaining damage. Schools shifted to online learning as local authorities responded to the situation.
Regional governor Roman Busargin acknowledged the attacks, adding that some plants had been hit for the second time in a week. Last week, an oil storage facility in Engels suffered severe damage, prompting a prolonged emergency response.
Meanwhile, in Tula, air defenses reportedly shot down 16 drones overnight. Although no casualties were reported, falling debris damaged cars and buildings. A gas storage facility near Kazan, in Tatarstan, was also struck, but local officials noted there were no injuries.
Ukraine’s Counteroffensive Challenges
Russia countered by launching dozens of drones into Ukraine, triggering widespread air raid alerts, including in Kyiv. Ukrainian officials reported successfully intercepting all but one of the drones, some of which were decoys designed to overwhelm air defenses.
The situation on Ukraine’s frontlines remains difficult. The General Staff has confirmed a shortage of infantry in many areas, prompting a controversial decision to reassign personnel from other branches to the front lines. According to Ukrainian media, this includes transferring over 5,000 air force troops, a move that has sparked concerns about weakening air defense operations.
Ukraine’s Air Force leadership has assured the public that critical specialists trained to operate advanced foreign weaponry, such as F-16 fighter jets and Patriot missile systems, will not be reassigned.
Shifting Dynamics and International Pressure
Ukraine continues to push back against Russian advances, but its efforts come under growing scrutiny from Western allies. Kyiv faces pressure from Washington to lower the conscription age from 25 to 18 to bolster troop numbers. However, President Volodymyr Zelensky has resisted the idea, citing the need for better weapons rather than more soldiers.
“We have over 100 brigades in action, and each one requires constant replenishment of equipment,” Zelensky said on Tuesday. He criticized delays in the delivery of promised weapons from allies, including advanced air defense systems and missiles.
US Policy Under the Spotlight
As Ukraine grapples with its challenges, the incoming administration of US President-elect Donald Trump has signaled a shift in tone. Trump’s national security adviser, Mike Waltz, recently called on Ukraine to demonstrate full commitment to the fight for democracy, suggesting that US support could depend on Kyiv’s actions.
Trump has expressed a desire to prioritize ending the war upon his return to the White House. While details of his plans remain unclear, he has suggested an early meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The night’s strikes in Russia mark a significant escalation in Ukraine’s military strategy, underscoring its determination to disrupt Russian operations and defend its sovereignty. As the war continues to evolve, the stakes remain high for both nations and their international allies.
