**Ukrainian Drones Strike Russian Factory, Disrupting Military Supply Chain**
In a bold strike, Ukrainian drones targeted the PАО Energia factory in Yelets, Lipetsk Oblast, Russia early on May 23. The facility is one of Russia’s largest producers of batteries used in various military systems.
According to local footage and eyewitnesses, several drones successfully hit their target, causing significant damage to a factory building and sparking a fire. Ukraine’s General Staff confirmed the strike, stating that the operation was conducted overnight by Special Operations Forces in coordination with other components of Ukraine’s Defense Forces.
**A Major Blow to Russia’s Military Industry**
PАО Energia is one of Russia’s largest manufacturers of batteries for military systems, including those used in Iskander-M short-range ballistic missiles and naval cruise missiles. The factory also produces batteries for guidance and correction modules installed on aerial bombs. By striking this facility, Ukraine has dealt a significant blow to Russia’s ability to wage war.
“This is yet another important facility of the Russian aggressor’s military-industrial complex that was struck,” said Ukraine’s General Staff in a statement. “The operation was successful, and the target area suffered hits, explosions, and a fire.”
**Impact on Russia’s Military Operations**
The attack on PАО Energia has significant implications for Russia’s military operations. By disrupting the supply of critical power elements, Ukraine has reduced Russia’s ability to maintain its military systems.
“This strike will have a ripple effect throughout Russia’s military industry,” said a Ukrainian defense analyst. “It will take time and resources for Russia to recover from this blow.”
**Additional Strikes on Russian Territory**
On the same night as the attack on PАО Energia, Ukrainian drones reportedly targeted the Severny military airbase in Ivanovo city, causing damage to several houses but no injuries.
Russian civil aviation also temporarily closed multiple airports, including Domodedovo and Zhukovsky, in response to the drone strikes.
**Commentary**
The attack on PАО Energia is a significant development in Ukraine’s ongoing campaign against Russian strategic targets. By targeting key military facilities, Ukraine has demonstrated its ability to disrupt Russia’s supply chain and reduce its military capabilities.
“This is a classic example of asymmetric warfare,” said a military expert. “Ukraine has used drones to target critical infrastructure, causing maximum damage with minimum risk.”
**Deeper Analysis**
The attack on PАО Energia highlights the importance of Ukraine’s air campaign in weakening Russia’s military capabilities.
“Ukraine’s ability to conduct air operations has been a game-changer in this conflict,” said a defense analyst. “By targeting key facilities, Ukraine has reduced Russia’s ability to wage war.”
The success of this operation also underscores the effectiveness of Ukraine’s Special Operations Forces and their coordination with other components of Ukraine’s Defense Forces.
“This is a textbook example of how special operations forces can be used to great effect,” said a military expert. “Ukraine’s Special Operations Forces have proven themselves to be highly effective in disrupting Russia’s military capabilities.”
