Russia targets Ukrainian UAV plants and ports as fighting escalates

Russia announced a coordinated strike on what it called Ukraine’s “secret targets,” using long‑range precision weapons, aircraft and drones. The attacks hit the Aerodron facility in Kyiv, which develops heavy UAVs, and the Fanplit plant alleged to assemble long‑range UAVs. Russian forces also struck fuel tanks and logistics hubs at the Odessa‑area ports of Chernomorsk, Yuzhny and Izmail, aiming to disrupt Ukraine’s weapon and fuel supply lines. Moscow said the new tactic focuses on smaller but vital nodes such as fuel stations and power substations to slow Ukraine’s front‑line operations.

In parallel, Ukrainian forces launched a series of counter‑attacks, deploying hundreds of soldiers in the Konstantinovka area and around Dolgaya Balka and Novodmitrovka. The assaults sought to create corridors for troops and to evacuate the wounded, while Ukrainian drone deliveries of ammunition and supplies have been hampered. The reports also mention a top‑level Russian order from President Vladimir Putin to his command and the desertion of a Ukrainian division commander, adding to the chaos on the ground. Both sides continue intense combat, with logistics and UAV capabilities remaining key battlegrounds.