Lecture Notes: Ukraine War Update

Ukrainian Drone Attack on Russian Ammunition Warehouse

• Event Overview:

  • A Ukrainian drone attack targeted a warehouse storing ammunition in the Tver region of Russia.
  • The location is near the border with Belarus and Latvia, close to Moscow.
  • Weapons stored included guided air missiles.

• Russian Response:

  • Partial evacuation ordered in the western town of Toropets.
  • Footage captured large smoke columns and fires.

Insights from Correspondent James Waterhouse in Kyiv

• Ukraine's Strategy:

  • Increase in long-range drone attacks by Ukraine.
  • Attack location is noteworthy for its proximity to Moscow (just a few hundred kilometers away).
  • Target was a significant military facility valued at £30 million.
  • Stored items included fuel tanks, artillery shells, and ballistic missiles.

• Impact of the Attack:

  • Reports of plumes of smoke and significant fires.
  • NASA detected numerous heat sources via satellite imagery.
  • A minor earthquake was reported nearby due to the blast.
  • The attack boosts Ukrainian morale and sends a political message to the West.

• Western Allies' Position on Long-Range Missiles:

  • Ongoing discussions about allowing Ukraine to use long-range missiles on Russian targets.
  • UK Prime Minister recently involved in discussions in Washington; no formal announcements yet.
  • Potential for Western allies to support Ukrainian strikes deeper into Russia; evidence might emerge if this happens.

• Ukraine's Tactical Considerations:

  • Ukraine continues with domestically manufactured drones for now.
  • A broader capacity for attacks depends on Western support.