Image Credits-The NewYork Times
In a stark reminder of the ongoing conflict, two individuals sustained injuries from debris as Ukrainian forces successfully repelled a Russian drone attack on the outskirts of Kyiv. Among the injured is Ilya Ponomaryov, a former Russian lawmaker and outspoken Kremlin critic who has resided in Ukraine for several years.
The attack occurred late last night when multiple drones targeted the region, triggering an immediate response from Ukrainian air defence systems. Local authorities reported that the drones were intercepted before causing widespread damage; however, the fallout from the interception inflicted injuries and minor property damage.
Ponomaryov, a prominent figure due to his vocal opposition to Russian President Vladimir Putin, shared his ordeal on social media. “A drone exploded right outside my front door, sending shrapnel flying and igniting a fire,” he mentioned in his Facebook post. The blast resulted in shrapnel wounds and necessitated emergency medical treatment. The other injured individual, whose identity remains undisclosed, is also reported to have sustained non-life-threatening injuries and is receiving medical care.
The Ukrainian government has condemned the attack, emphasizing the ongoing threat posed by Russian military actions. In a statement, a Ukrainian defence spokesperson said, “This is another clear act of aggression from the Russian Federation. Our defenses remain vigilant, and we will continue to protect our citizens from these unlawful attacks.”
Ponomaryov, who has been living in Ukraine since 2016 after fleeing Russia, is a well-known critic of the Kremlin. He was the only member of the Russian State Duma to vote against the annexation of Crimea in 2014, a move that has since made him a target for Russian authorities.
This incident underscores the heightened tensions and the continuous risk faced by civilians and dissidents in the region. The international community is keeping a close watch, with calls for increased diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis.