Russia has deployed long-range glide bombs, known as KABs, to strike residential areas deep behind the front lines. In the last week, Moscow has for the first time targeted Mykolaiv, Poltova, and the city of Lozova in Kharkiv Oblast with these weapons. Lozova, located 150 kilometers (93 miles) from Kyiv, has become a focal point due to its strategic significance.
Experts argue that these attacks are part of a broader strategy to instill fear among civilians and weaken morale, rather than achieve direct military victories. The use of KABs, which are rocket-powered guided bombs, allows Russia to strike with greater precision while avoiding the need for extensive ground operations. However, the targeting of civilian areas raises serious concerns about the humanitarian impact and potential violations of international law.
The strikes have drawn international condemnation, with critics highlighting the ethical implications of the attacks. While Russia maintains that these strikes are necessary to disrupt Ukrainian supply lines and command structures, the humanitarian cost remains a pressing issue for global peace organizations and human rights advocates. The situation underscores the ongoing complexity of modern warfare and the urgent need for international support for affected populations as the conflict in Ukraine continues to escalate.