Russia reportedly launches New Year's drone attacks on Ukraine
Kyiv, Ukraine - Russia attacked Ukraine with a total of 45 drones overnight, the Ukrainian military reported on New Year's Day.
All the Iranian-made Shahed-136 combat drones – the so-called "kamikaze" drones – were destroyed by Ukrainian air defenses, the armed forces said.
Russia deployed the drones under its own name, Geran, to disguise Iranian involvement. Russia and Iran have long cooperated militarily.
"The servicemen of the Ukrainian Air Force congratulate their indomitable nation on New Year 2023! Together to victory!" Sunday's message continued.
Russia also fired 20 missiles at various other targets in Ukraine on New Year's Eve, the Ukrainian military said. Most were intercepted.
Ukraine's air defenses have improved thanks to massive Western military aid during the course of the war, which began with Russia's invasion on February 24, 2022.
Cover photo: Genya SAVILOV / AFP