**Russia Hit by Drone Strikes Overnight, Including a High-Value Defense Facility**
In a surprise attack, drones struck multiple targets in Russia overnight on July 4. The strikes included a high-value defense facility in the southern Rostov region, according to Andrii Kovalenko, head of the counter-disinformation center at Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council.
**Key Targets Hit by Drones**
The Azov Optical and Mechanical Plant in the town of Azov, Rostov Oblast was one of the targets hit by a drone. The facility manufactures critical components for the Russian military, including sights, rangefinders, thermal imaging systems, and fire control equipment for tanks, infantry fighting vehicles, ships, and aircraft.
**Other Regions Also Affected**
Overnight on July 4, Russia launched a massive drone and missile assault on multiple Ukrainian cities, with Kyiv as the primary target. At least 23 people were injured in the capital amid widespread destruction and high levels of air pollution. Russian officials confirmed drone strikes across several regions.
**Local Residents Report Damage and Injuries**
In Sergiyev Posad in Moscow Oblast, four explosions were reported around 5 a.m. near the Zvezdochka neighborhood, accompanied by the sound of drone engines. Two people were injured in Sergiyev Posad, according to Governor Andrei Vorobyov.
**Russian Defense Ministry Claims Success Against Drones**
Russia’s Defense Ministry later claimed that air defense systems had intercepted or destroyed 48 Ukrainian drones overnight. However, these claims have not been independently verified by The Kyiv Independent.
**Commentary and Deeper Analysis**
This surprise attack on Russia highlights the escalating conflict between Ukraine and Russia. The targeting of a high-value defense facility suggests that Ukraine is determined to disrupt Russia’s military capabilities. The fact that other regions were also affected by drone strikes suggests a coordinated effort by Ukrainian forces to cause maximum disruption.
The use of drones in this attack raises questions about the effectiveness of air defense systems in intercepting and destroying these types of targets. The conflicting claims by Russian authorities about the success of their air defenses only add to the uncertainty surrounding this incident.
**What’s Next?**
As tensions between Ukraine and Russia continue to rise, it is clear that both sides are willing to use military force to achieve their goals. The consequences of these actions will be felt for weeks and possibly months to come. One thing is certain: the people of Ukraine and Russia will bear the brunt of this conflict.
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