**Russia’s Aerial Attacks Hit Western Ukraine, Leaving Residents on Edge**
The city of Lutsk in Volyn Oblast, located just 90 kilometers from the Polish border, has long been spared the worst of Russia’s aerial attacks. However, over the last few weeks, this western Ukrainian city has become a prime target for Russian missiles and drones.
On June 6, Lutsk was hit hard by Russian forces, injuring 30 people and killing a young couple. This attack was not an isolated incident, as similar strikes had occurred in August 2023 and July 2024. However, the scale and frequency of recent attacks have left residents on edge.
**A Terrifying Experience for Lutsk Residents**
For Antonina Stetsenko, a 26-year-old resident of Lutsk, the experience was terrifying. She described waking up to the sound of a Kinzhal missile strike and rushing to the nearest shelter, which happened to be the local cathedral. The attack on July 9 was particularly intense, with drones and missiles exploding in the city.
Yaroslava Savosh-Davydova, another resident, shared a similar experience. She and her family took refuge in their apartment’s corridor, waiting for the all-clear signal from air defense systems. Savosh-Davydova expressed concern that Russia’s attacks were designed to undermine the morale of Ukraine’s civilian population.
**The Largest Aerial Assault on Ukraine Since 2022**
The attack on Lutsk was part of a larger assault on Ukraine, with Russian forces deploying over 700 Shahed-type attack drones and decoys, as well as cruise missiles. Ukrainian air defenses managed to shoot down most of the drones and missiles, but not before they caused significant damage.
Lutsk Mayor Ihor Polishchuk described the attack as the “most massive Russian attack” on the city since the start of full-scale war in 2022. The assault left several buildings damaged or destroyed, with drone debris scattered across the city.
**Why Lutsk?**
The targeting of Lutsk has raised questions about Russia’s intentions. Savosh-Davydova suggested that the attacks were designed to demoralize civilians and undermine the rear, where logistics and support for the front lines are concentrated.
As Russia continues its aerial campaign against Ukraine, it seems likely that there is more to these attacks than meets the eye. The escalating strikes have already claimed lives in other parts of the country, leaving residents with a growing sense of unease.
**A War of Attrition**
For Yaroslava Savosh-Davydova, the recent attacks are a grim reminder of the brutal methods employed by Russia in its war against Ukraine. She recalled a conversation with a wounded soldier in 2015 who described this as a “war of attrition.” Ten years later, she is shocked by how ruthless the tactics have become.
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