On the night of November 20 (from 18:00 on November 19), Russia launched a large-scale attack on Ukrainian territory, deploying a total of 136 Shahed and other types of strike UAVs and drones from various directions. The attack came from locations such as Kursk, Orel, Millerovo, Bryansk, Shatalovo, Primorsko-Akhtarsk, and Gvardiyske – a region under temporary Russian control in Crimea. The Ukrainian Air Force reported that out of the 136 incoming missiles and drones, 106 were successfully intercepted and destroyed, with approximately 80 of them being Shahed UAVs.
The scale of the attack indicates the continued focus of Russian military operations on targeting Ukrainian infrastructure and civilian areas, despite the significant losses. Ukraine’s ability to neutralize the majority of the incoming threats underscores the effectiveness of its modern air defense systems and the strategic advantages gained through international support and technological advancements.
The Ukrainian military has consistently emphasized the need for sustained efforts to protect its territory and population. The incident highlights the ongoing challenges and resilience required in the face of persistent aggression, while also demonstrating the critical importance of air defense capabilities in modern warfare.