On June 23, 2024, tensions between Ukraine and Russia escalated as both countries engaged in a series of attacks on each other's infrastructure and civilian areas. The conflict began with reports of Ukrainian drones and missiles striking targets in Russia and Crimea, resulting in several fatalities and injuries.
According to various sources, including the Russian Defense Ministry, at least five people were killed by shrapnel from a Ukrainian missile that exploded over a crowded beach in Sevastopol, Crimea. Among the victims were three children. The missile was reportedly an Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) rocket, which Ukraine considers to be their property and has been supplied by the United States.
Ukraine's attacks on Russian territory came in response to ongoing Russian strikes on Ukrainian energy facilities, which have left hundreds of thousands without power. In its eighth major attack overnight, Russia fired 16 missiles and 13 Shahed drones at Ukrainian energy infrastructure in the southeast and west of the country.
The conflict between Ukraine and Russia has been ongoing since 2014, when Russia annexed Crimea from Ukraine. Both sides have accused each other of aggression, with Ukraine claiming that Russia is interfering in its sovereignty, while Russia argues that it is protecting its national security interests.
Despite the escalating tensions and violence, it is important to note that all parties involved should strive for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. The loss of innocent lives and destruction of infrastructure only serves to worsen the situation for both sides. It is crucial that diplomatic efforts continue in order to find a lasting solution.
Here are some key facts from the sources:
- Ukraine fired a US-made ATACMS missile towards Crimea on Sunday, which exploded over a crowded beach in Sevastopol, killing at least five people and injuring over 120 others.
- In its eighth major attack overnight, Russia fired 16 missiles and 13 Shahed drones at Ukrainian energy infrastructure in the southeast and west of the country.
- Two energy workers were injured in Zaporizhzhia when a fire broke out at an energy facility after a Russian attack.
- The conflict between Ukraine and Russia has been ongoing since 2014, when Russia annexed Crimea from Ukraine.