…By Lola Smith for TDPel Media.
According to British defence chiefs, Russia has obtained a “temporary advantage” in southern Ukraine by bolstering its attack helicopter presence in the region.
The UK’s Ministry of Defence (MoD) released an intelligence update stating that Russia has deployed over 20 additional helicopters to Berdyansk Airport, located approximately 100km behind the front line.
This move by Russia is seen as an attempt to counter the Ukrainian counter-offensive in the area, providing them with a temporary upper hand, particularly in utilizing attack helicopters armed with longer-range missiles against ground targets.
Russian Forces Repel Ukrainian Counterattacks
The development follows the Russian military’s claims of successfully repelling multiple Ukrainian army counterattacks in various frontline locations.
The defence ministry in Moscow stated that it employed ground troops, air strikes, and artillery to fend off Ukrainian forces in the Donetsk region.
Russia alleged heavy losses on the Ukrainian side, asserting that approximately 500 soldiers were killed and five tanks destroyed.
Explosions in Kyiv and Air Defense Response
In Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine, explosions were heard during the visit of African leaders on a peace mission.
Kyiv’s mayor, Vitali Klitschko, attributed the blasts to the city’s air defense systems intercepting and shooting down Russian missiles near the area.
Fortunately, there were no reports of injuries or damage to buildings as a result of these incidents.
Conclusion:
The recent reinforcement of attack helicopters by Russia in southern Ukraine has given them a temporary advantage in the ongoing conflict.
This escalation comes alongside Russia’s claims of successfully repelling Ukrainian counterattacks, leading to heavy losses on the Ukrainian side.
The situation remains tense, with explosions occurring in Kyiv as air defense systems intercepted Russian missiles.
The dynamics of the conflict continue to evolve, heightening concerns about the region’s stability and the potential for further escalation.