Putin Launches Cruise Missile Over NATO Controlled Airspace

Attacks on Lviv

On March 24th, Russia launched significant missile attacks on Ukraine’s western region and the city of Lviv, according to statements from Kyiv. These attacks, part of a broader offensive that included the capital city of Kyiv, involved the launching of 57 missiles and drones.

This barrage came just two days following the most extensive attack on Ukraine’s power infrastructure since the escalation of the conflict over two years ago. Maksym Kozytskyi, Lviv’s regional leader, reported on Telegram that the strikes targeted the same critical infrastructure facility previously attacked, utilizing Kinzhal hypersonic missiles, known for their difficulty to be intercepted. The specific facility targeted was not disclosed.

During these assaults, a significant energy installation in the Lviv area was hit, resulting in a fire and a subsequent power outage. It remains unclear if this was the same facility mentioned by Kozytskyi. Ukraine’s energy ministry revealed that the country had to substantially increase its electricity imports and halt exports following these attacks on its energy framework.

More Than Half of the Missiles Were Intercepted

Ukrainian air defense systems reported intercepting 18 out of 29 missiles and 25 out of 28 drones. Despite the extensive nature of these attacks, detailed information regarding the extent of the damage remains scarce. The strategic targeting of critical infrastructure suggests an attempt by Russia to maintain pressure on Ukraine’s energy supplies, especially after previous strikes led to widespread power outages.

In Kyiv, several explosions were heard as air defenses managed to neutralize around a dozen missiles targeting the city and its surroundings, according to Serhiy Popko, head of Kyiv’s military administration. The attacks resulted in minimal damage.

In response to these continued assaults, which Russia frames as retaliatory for Ukrainian actions during Russia’s presidential election period, Kyiv’s residents sought refuge in metro stations, with some using camping mats for rest. Additionally, a Kh-55 cruise missile’s debris was discovered in a park in Kyiv.

Russian Missiles over Polish Airspace

Amidst these developments, Poland reported a breach of its airspace by a Russian cruise missile aimed at Lviv, marking a concerning escalation. The missile entered Polish territory near Oserdow in the Lublin Voivodeship, remaining in Polish airspace for 39 seconds and traveling approximately 2 km (1.2 miles) inside the border before re-entering Ukraine.

This incident, tracked by military radar throughout its flight, prompted Poland to seek explanations from Moscow. Despite Russia’s lack of immediate response, Polish Defence Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz affirmed Poland’s continued support for Ukraine, both militarily and humanitarian.