This article reports on the challenges faced by Ukrainian civilians and service members due to Russia’s drone attacks.
**Civilian Perspective:**
The article shares the story of Rodkina, a woman whose apartment in Chornomorsk was hit by a Russian drone. Her family had been facing difficulties with her husband at war, his mother with cancer, and her father hospitalized after a heart attack. The drone strike felt like “it can’t get any worse” for them.
Rodkina’s experience highlights the psychological impact of living under constant threat. Despite the damage to her apartment, she reflects on the memories and warmth associated with the building where many parties were held. Her family is waiting for a state commission to evaluate the damage so they can receive financial support.
**Service Member Perspective:**
The article also features Dmytro, a member of Ukraine’s 117th Territorial Defense Brigade, who commands three mobile air defense squads in the Sumy Oblast region near Russia. His team has downed 19 drones in the past three months, compared to only seven throughout 2023.
Dmytro and his team work tirelessly to intercept Russian drones, often taking turns resting to avoid missing a potential threat. They are exhausted but determined to protect their city and its people from harm. The article notes that Ukraine’s air defense system is under increasing pressure due to the high number of drone attacks.
**Background Information:**
The article provides context on Russia’s recent strategy of launching mass drone barrages against Ukraine. In September, Russia used 1,334 drones in a month-long campaign, while in October, they launched over 2,000 Shahed drones. Ukrainian officials have anticipated an intensified missile campaign with the onset of the heating season.
Experts suggest that Russia’s tactic may be aimed at depleting Ukraine’s air defense systems ahead of a larger-scale attack or to force Ukraine to expose its air defense network when intercepting drones. As Ukrainians prepare for potential mass missile attacks, Dmytro and his team continue their efforts to protect their city from Russian drone threats.
**Key Points:**
* Ukrainian civilians face psychological trauma due to constant threat from Russian drone attacks.
* Service members like Dmytro work tirelessly to intercept drones, often at the cost of exhaustion.
* Russia’s strategy involves launching mass drone barrages to deplete Ukraine’s air defense systems.
* Experts anticipate an intensified missile campaign with the onset of the heating season.
Overall, the article highlights the challenges faced by Ukrainian civilians and service members in the face of Russia’s aggressive actions.