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Ukraine targets major Russian military factory
Ukrainian forces have attacked one of Russia's most critical defense manufacturing sites, President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed on Wednesday. The Kremniy El plant in Bryansk, near the Ukrainian border, produced electronic components for Russian missiles used in strikes against Ukrainian cities and civilian areas, Zelensky stated.
Storm Shadow missiles used in the strike
The Ukrainian military said British-supplied Storm Shadow missiles were deployed in the operation. The facility, located in Bryansk Oblast, has been a key supplier of parts for Russia's missile arsenal, according to Ukrainian intelligence.
Russia reports civilian casualties
Local Russian authorities claimed the attack resulted in six civilian deaths and 42 injuries, labeling it a "terrorist missile strike." Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov accused the UK of direct involvement, stating that the missile launch would have been impossible "without British specialists."
Peskov reiterated that Russia's "special military operation" aims to "demilitarize" Ukraine, a long-standing objective of President Vladimir Putin's invasion, which began in February 2022.
Escalating attacks on both sides
Despite recent battlefield stalemates, both Ukraine and Russia have intensified strikes. On Wednesday, a Russian drone attack in Kharkiv killed two people and injured five, Ukrainian officials reported. The previous day, a missile strike in Slovyansk, eastern Ukraine, left four dead and 16 wounded.
While Russia has made incremental territorial gains, Ukraine claims it is recapturing some occupied land. Meanwhile, Western military aid-including advanced weaponry-continues to flow into Ukraine, while Russia receives support from allies like Iran and North Korea.
Diplomatic efforts resume amid territorial disputes
Zelensky announced that another round of negotiations, involving Russian and U.S. representatives, may take place next week. The talks, led by U.S. President Donald Trump, reportedly include proposals for Ukraine to cede parts of the Donbas region-Donetsk and Luhansk-to Russia.
Russia currently occupies over 80% of the Donbas, a demand Ukraine has firmly rejected. The outcome of the negotiations remains uncertain as both sides maintain hardened positions.
