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Defense NewsIndia ,U.SThe US Navy has taken a significant step in bolstering its presence in the Indo-Pacific region by securing a new agreement allowing its ships to dock and undergo repairs at Cochin Shipyard in India.Signed on April 5, 2024, the deal expands the existing naval cooperation framework between India and the US, which was established during last year's G20 summit.Known as the Master Shipyard Repair Agreement (MSRA), the pact between Cochin Shipyard and the US Navy strengthens India's role in supporting America's naval operations in Asia.This agreement follows similar deals signed in 2023 with Larsen & Toubro (L&T) at Kattupalli Port near Chennai and Mazgaon Docks in Mumbai. These shipyards, renowned for building India's most sophisticated warships, now serve as crucial maintenance centers for US Navy assets in the Indo-Pacific.The primary driver behind this partnership is security concerns, particularly the absence of suitable repair facilities within the region. Current options in East and Southeast Asia are potentially vulnerable to Chinese forces, posing a risk to the US Navy.Indian shipyards, on the other hand, offer reliable and strategically positioned maintenance hubs, significantly enhancing the US naval posture in the Indo-Pacific.From a geopolitical standpoint, this agreement underscores the deepening defense ties between the US and India, driven by shared concerns over China's expanding maritime influence.With this move, the US gains crucial logistical support, while India solidifies its position as a major regional power.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-07 14:51:27

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Defense NewsIsraelPrime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday said Israel was "one step away from victory" in the Gaza war and vowed there would be no truce until Hamas frees all hostages.He was speaking in a cabinet meeting marking six months of the war that broke out on October 7 after an unprecedented attack on Israel by Hamas militants."We are one step away from victory," Netanyahu said. "But the price we paid is painful and heartbreaking."Speaking as truce talks were expected to resume in Cairo with international mediators, he said: "There will be no ceasefire without the return of hostages. It just won't happen."He stressed that "Israel is ready for a deal, Israel is not ready to surrender"."Instead of international pressure being directed at Israel, which only causes Hamas to harden its positions, the pressure of the international community should be directed against Hamas. This will advance the release of the hostages."Israel has faced a storm of international outrage over the killing of seven aid workers of the US-based food charity World Central Kitchen in a Gaza air strike on April 1.US President Joe Biden in a phone call with Netanyahu on Thursday demanded an "immediate ceasefire" and hinted at making US support for Israel conditional on curtailing the killing of civilians and improving humanitarian conditions.Netanyahu meanwhile accused Iran of being behind several attacks against Israel "through its proxies"."Anyone who hurts us or plans to hurt us -- we will hurt him. We put this principle into practice, all the time and in recent days," Netanyahu added.Fears that the war in Gaza could spread have intensified after Iran vowed to hit back for the killing of seven of its Revolutionary Guards in an air strike Monday on the consular annex of its embassy in Damascus.Iran's leaders have pledged retaliation, and the leader of Lebanon's Iran-backed Hezbollah movement, Hassan Nasrallah, has called the consulate strike a "turning point".

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-07 14:47:46

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Defense NewsNetherlandOver 600 military personnel, experts, and students gathered last week for a groundbreaking event called Next Generation Concept Development in Ede. The aim was to test new operational ideas, including drones, electric vehicles, and autonomous robots.One key experiment involved using drones to create a communication network in the air, helping soldiers stay in touch securely during combat. Other tests focused on self-driving robots and electric vehicles for supply missions, as well as exploring alternative energy sources for field camps.The event wasn't solely about combat. Simulators were used to replicate combat situations involving helicopters or additional battalions, making training exercises more effective and straightforward.Lieutenant General Jan Swillens, Commander of the Royal Netherlands Army, emphasized the importance of ongoing innovation. He pointed to the conflict in Ukraine as a reminder of why updating operational strategies is crucial."Innovating with people, methods, and materials is essential," said Swillens. "The Dutch are naturally creative and innovative, which is vital for success in battles. There's a growing awareness that everyone in society has a role in our national defense."The event showcased practical advancements in military technology and strategy, reflecting a commitment to staying ahead in an ever-evolving landscape of conflict.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-07 14:45:32

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Defense NewsTurkeyFNSS, a prominent Turkish defense manufacturer, has unveiled the PARS III, a new wheeled armored vehicle featuring the advanced Teber-35 UKK remotely operated turret. This innovation aims to meet the evolving needs of modern military operations by integrating cutting-edge technology to enhance precision and versatility.The Teber-35 UKK turret, designed for both wheeled and tracked armored vehicles, comes with an automatic medium-caliber cannon and a sophisticated targeting and fire control system. It allows remote operation by the gunner and commander through vehicle-mounted control consoles, facilitating effective command and control in challenging combat environments.Equipped with advanced drive technology, fire control systems, survivability, and firepower capabilities, the turret ensures effectiveness in various conditions, day or night. The Teber-35 features a Mk44 40mm automatic cannon with a high rate of fire and a capacity for 200 rounds. Additionally, it can be fitted with a Bushmaster III 50mm cannon for increased firepower.Various ammunition types, including high-explosive, armor-piercing, and programmable explosive rounds, provide versatility in targeting. A coaxial machine gun, available with either an electric chain gun or a gas-operated gun in 7.62mm caliber, complements the main armament, offering reliability and safety by enabling continuous firing without manual intervention.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-07 14:39:01

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Defense NewsIsraelThe recent escalation of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah has resulted in airstrikes by Israel on eastern Lebanon. Israel claims the strikes targeted Hezbollah sites in retaliation for the downing of one of its drones by the Iran-backed group. The Israeli army stated that fighter jets hit a military complex and three other sites in the city of Baalbek. Fortunately, there were no reported casualties.Tensions have been high since October 8, 2023, following an attack by the Palestinian group Hamas on Israel, leading to conflict in Gaza and subsequent regional tensions. Israeli shelling has resulted in casualties, including approximately 270 Hezbollah fighters and 50 civilians. Additionally, over 90,000 people have been displaced in southern Lebanon, while more than 96,000 Israelis have fled the northern border area.According to the Israeli army, since October 7, approximately 604 Lebanese soldiers, including 204 inside Gaza, have been killed. They reported 41 Israeli soldiers killed in friendly fire incidents. Furthermore, around 12,000 Hamas fighters and members of other armed groups have been killed. Israel claims to have targeted 4,700 Hezbollah positions in Lebanon, resulting in the deaths of 330 operatives, including 30 commanders.In Gaza, over 33,000 Palestinians, including more than 13,800 children, have been killed in Israeli attacks since October 7. Despite efforts by Western powers to mediate talks for a ceasefire, Israel has continued military operations in Gaza, supported by allies providing additional weaponry. As of now, there is no resolution in sight to the ongoing conflict.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-07 08:52:00

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Defense NewsUkraine Russia WarIn a recent interview aired on Ukrainian television, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy issued a stark warning about the concerning state of Ukraine's air defence capabilities amidst the ongoing Russian bombing campaign. Zelenskiy expressed that if the relentless Russian strikes persist at the current rate, Ukraine could potentially exhaust its supply of air defence missiles. This warning comes after weeks of sustained attacks by Russia, targeting various infrastructure including the energy system, towns, and cities, utilizing a wide array of missiles and drones.Zelenskiy highlighted the critical importance of maintaining an adequate stockpile of air defence missiles, emphasizing the necessity of the Patriot air defence systems. These systems, provided by the United States, play a crucial role in defending against Russian attacks, especially ballistic and hypersonic missiles capable of striking targets within minutes.While Ukraine currently possesses enough air defence resources to manage the situation, Zelenskiy noted that difficult decisions regarding prioritization of protection measures are already underway. The Ukrainian leader's candid remarks underscore the gravity of the situation and the urgent need for support from international partners to bolster Ukraine's defence capabilities.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-07 08:45:31

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Defense NewsU.SMARTAC, a leading provider of Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs) and Fleet Management Solutions, has unveiled a groundbreaking maritime attack drone boat poised to revolutionize naval operations.Named the MUSKIE M18 ASV, this state-of-the-art drone boat signifies a major advancement in naval technology for the U.S. Navy. With an impressive range of features and capabilities, the M18 ASV ushers in a new era in unmanned maritime systems, offering enhanced performance and versatility across various missions.At a length of 18 feet (5.5 meters), the M18 ASV is a cost-effective, attritable system designed for one-way missions. Its high-performance monohull configuration enables speeds exceeding 50 knots and cruising ranges of up to 500 nautical miles in open ocean conditions. Additionally, the M18 ASV can accommodate payloads weighing up to 1000 pounds (450 kg), facilitating the integration of diverse payloads, including warheads for specialized missions.Acquired by the United States Department of Defense (DoD), the M18 ASV is custom-built to provide operators with the adaptability needed to execute a wide range of missions effectively. From surveillance and reconnaissance to offensive operations, the M18 ASV offers a practical solution for bolstering naval capabilities in today's ever-changing maritime landscape.With its advanced features and mission versatility, the MUSKIE M18 ASV stands as a testament to the ongoing innovation in unmanned maritime systems, providing the U.S. Navy with a reliable tool to address evolving challenges on the high seas.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-06 15:23:52

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Defense NewsIranIran announced on Saturday that it had apprehended members of the ISIL (ISIS) group who were allegedly plotting an attack at the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramzan, Al Jazeera reported. The breakthrough came after a vigilant citizen in Mahdasht, located in the Alborz province, approximately 60km (37 miles) west of Tehran, alerted law enforcement, according to police spokesman Saeed Montazerolmahdi. This tip-off led to the arrest of a "senior" ISIL figure named Mohammad "Ramesh" Zaker. Montazerolmahdi revealed that Zaker and two other ISIL operatives were taken into custody, while an additional eight individuals accompanying the alleged terrorists were also arrested, as reported by Al Jazeera. The group was purportedly planning a suicide attack during Eid al-Fitr, the festival marking the end of Ramzan. This development follows previous attacks attributed to ISIL in Iran, including twin bombings during a ceremony in Kerman in January, which claimed nearly 100 lives and left over 200 wounded. The Islamic State in Khorasan Province (ISIS-K), the Afghanistan-based branch of ISIL, claimed responsibility for the Kerman assault. Iran responded by arresting 35 individuals linked to the attacks, including an ISIS-K commander. In addition to the Kerman incident, ISIL has been implicated in other attacks on Iranian soil, such as assaults on a major Shia shrine in Shiraz. Notably, the group has targeted symbols of Iranian authority, including the parliament and the tomb of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini in 2017, according to Al Jazeera. Meanwhile, Iran faces heightened security challenges amidst escalating tensions in the region, exacerbated by Israel's military actions in Gaza. Recently, armed militants from the Sunni separatist group Jaish al-Adl launched attacks on two bases of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in the southeastern province of Sistan-Baluchestan. This prompted funeral processions for slain IRGC members across various provinces, including Lorestan and Mazandaran. Furthermore, Iran mourned the loss of Brigadier-General Mohammad Reza Zahedi, a senior IRGC commander killed in an Israeli airstrike on the Iranian consulate building in Damascus, Syria. Speaking to a crowd in Tehran on Saturday, the chief of staff of the Iranian armed forces, Mohammad Bagheri, said "the criminal US and the cruel and child-killing Zionists must know that the life of the regime [Israel] is coming to an end, and there is not much left until its decay and destruction". "Air strikes on a consulate, as a protected mission under international accords, have no meaning but madness from the Zionist regime because it is harming and killing itself. If politicians in Israel had any credibility left, this move destroyed it," he said, renewing Iran's vow for revenge for its killed commanders, Al Jazeera reported.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-06 14:53:41

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Defense NewsU.S ,Israel ,IranThe United States is currently on high alert and making preparations for a potential attack by Iran, targeting Israeli or American assets in the region. This alert comes as a response to Israel's recent strike on the Iranian embassy in Syria, according to a U.S. official.Confirming a report by CNN, the official stated that there is a heightened state of vigilance, with concerns that an attack could occur within the next week.The recent escalation began when suspected Israeli warplanes bombed Iran's embassy in Damascus earlier this week. The strike resulted in the death of an Iranian military commander, escalating tensions between Israel and its regional adversaries.Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has reported the deaths of seven Iranian military advisers in the strike, including a senior commander in its Quds Force, Mohammad Reza Zahedi.In response, Iran has stated its intention to take a decisive response, asserting its right to retaliate.U.S. President Joe Biden addressed the threat from Iran during a phone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. A senior Biden administration official affirmed full support for Israel's defense against threats from Iran, emphasizing ongoing communication and collaboration between the two countries.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-06 14:41:05

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Defense NewsIsrael & IranIran said it asked the US to “step aside” as the country prepares a response to a suspected Israeli attack on its consulate in Syria while Hezbollah, its main proxy in the Middle East, warned the Jewish state it’s prepared for war.In a written message to Washington, Iran “warned the US not to get dragged into Netanyahu’s trap,” Mohammad Jamshidi, the Iranian president’s deputy chief of staff for political affairs, wrote on X, referring to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The US should “step aside so that you don’t get hit.”“In response, the US asked Iran not to hit American targets,” Jamshidi said.The US hasn’t commented on the alleged message Iran had sent.CNN reported that the US is on high alert and is preparing for a “significant” response from Iran against Israeli or American targets in the region. The network cited an unnamed US official.NBC, citing two unnamed US officials, said President Joe Biden’s administration is concerned any attack could be inside Israel, specifically against “military or intelligence targets, rather than civilians.”The Biden administration did take the unusual step of communicating directly to Iran that the US was unaware Monday’s strike in Damascus would happen, Bloomberg reported. That suggested the US was trying to prevent its own forces and bases in the Middle East being attacked.The Islamic Republic has said it will deliver a “slap” to Israel, its arch enemy. Still, it’s unclear when that would happen or whether Iran would try to attack Israel directly or through one of its proxy groups such as Hezbollah, based in Lebanon.The airstrike hit the Iranian consulate in Damascus, killing at least seven Iranians, including two generals. While Israel has repeatedly targeted Iran-linked assets in Syria over the past few months, this was the first time an attack struck an Iranian diplomatic building.Israel has been on alert since then, canceling home leave for combat troops, calling up reserves and bolstering air defenses. Its military scrambled navigational signals over Tel Aviv on Thursday to disrupt GPS-navigated drones or missiles that might be fired at the country.Hezbollah’s leader, Hassan Nasrallah, on Friday said a response from Iran is undoubtedly coming. But, he said, his group won’t “interfere in such decisions.”“And after that, how Israel will behave, the region would enter in a new phase,” Nasrallah said in a televised speech.Nasrallah, who lives in hiding, highlighted the coordinated work of Iran’s so-called resistance groups in the region.Hezbollah, the Middle East’s most powerful militia, said the group hasn’t used “its primary arsenal” in the daily skirmishes with Israel along the southern border of Lebanon since the start of the Israel-Hamas war on Oct. 7.Hezbollah is “completely prepared and ready” for any war with Israel, Nasrallah said.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-06 06:51:31

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Science NewsChinaArchaeologists in China have made a significant breakthrough in unraveling the mysteries surrounding Emperor Wu of the Northern Zhou dynasty, who ruled over 1,500 years ago until his untimely death at the age of 36. Utilizing innovative methods to analyze ancient DNA extracted from the emperor's bones, researchers from Fudan University reconstructed his facial features and shed light on the potential causes of his demise.Emperor Wu's death has long been a subject of speculation, with ancient texts suggesting poisoning as a possible cause. However, recent findings published in the journal Current Biology propose an alternative theory. Through a meticulous examination of the emperor's genetic material, the research team suggested that he may have been predisposed to stroke, challenging previous assumptions about his cause of death.The study involved a combination of traditional forensic techniques and advanced DNA analysis, allowing researchers to reconstruct Emperor Wu's appearance and identify genetic markers indicative of his physical characteristics. Despite the challenges posed by the degradation of the DNA samples, the team developed a novel approach tailored to handle highly fragmented genetic material, resulting in a tenfold improvement in data extraction.The analysis revealed that Emperor Wu likely had typical East Asian features, including dark hair, brown eyes, and intermediate to dark skin tone. Additionally, the study indicated that he may have been susceptible to various diseases, including stroke, gout, and leukemia, offering valuable insights into his health profile.Moreover, the genetic analysis provided intriguing clues about Emperor Wu's ancestry. While approximately 60% of his genetic makeup traced back to the Xianbei people, a nomadic group that founded the Northern Zhou dynasty, the remaining DNA resembled that of Han Chinese communities along the Yellow River. This suggests a complex ancestral lineage, reflecting the diverse cultural landscape of ancient China.The significance of this research extends beyond the individual case of Emperor Wu. By refining techniques for analyzing ancient DNA, researchers hope to unlock a deeper understanding of other historical figures and populations. The ability to reconstruct facial features and infer genetic traits from skeletal remains opens new avenues for studying ancient civilizations and their genetic legacies.In addition to shedding light on Emperor Wu's life and death, this study exemplifies the potential of genetic analysis to enrich our understanding of human history. By examining samples from different time periods and cultures, researchers aim to construct a comprehensive genetic lineage of East Asian populations, bridging the gap between past and present.Looking ahead, the research team plans to expand their investigations to include a broader range of ancient samples, with the ultimate goal of tracing the genetic origins of the Chinese nation. By unraveling the intricate tapestry of human genetics, they hope to illuminate the shared heritage of East Asian peoples and deepen our appreciation of the rich history of the region.In conclusion, the reconstruction of Emperor Wu's face and the insights gleaned from his genetic analysis represent a milestone in the study of ancient DNA. Through meticulous research and innovative methodologies, archaeologists and geneticists are unlocking the secrets of the past, offering new perspectives on the lives of historical figures and the evolution of human societies. As we continue to unravel the mysteries of our collective heritage, the story of Emperor Wu serves as a testament to the enduring quest for knowledge and understanding.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-06 06:25:34

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Defense NewsAustraliaChess Dynamics has secured a contract from BAE Systems Maritime Australia to supply its SeaEagle FCEO surveillance systems for the initial batch of the Royal Australian Navy's (RAN) Hunter class frigates.This system will furnish the RAN with a cutting-edge surveillance capability, facilitating the detection, tracking, and identification of surface and air targets as part of the Hunter Class Frigate Program. Its highly precise tracking data is anticipated to enable passive targeting for weapon systems, thereby reducing operator workload.The SeaEagle FCEO has been chosen for integration into various global naval programs, including the Royal Navy’s Type 26 Global Combat Ship, which served as the blueprint for the Hunter class frigates. Equipped with an advanced daylight camera, a high-resolution infrared camera, and an eye-safe laser rangefinder, the system boasts a sophisticated software suite providing a comprehensive view of the maritime environment.David Tuddenham, Group Managing Director of Chess Dynamics, expressed delight at the selection by BAE Systems Maritime Australia. "Our system has demonstrated its reliability, and we are confident it will furnish the RAN with the capability it requires to operate effectively in increasingly demanding maritime environments."Integration of the SeaEagle FCEO system into the combat management system of the Hunter class frigates will afford the crew a single, user-friendly interface. Additionally, the system can exchange information with other ships and assets in the fleet, bolstering the RAN’s overall maritime situational awareness.This contract signifies a significant milestone for Chess Dynamics, further cementing its position as a leading provider of high-performance electro-optic sensor systems for the maritime defense market. The SeaEagle FCEO system is poised to play a pivotal role in the RAN’s Hunter Class Frigate Program, furnishing the fleet with the requisite capability to operate effectively in a contemporary maritime environment.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-06 06:19:47

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Defense NewsNew ZealandNew Zealand's first C-130J Super Hercules military transport aircraft has successfully completed its initial flight test in the United States. The demonstration flight lasted 246 minutes over Georgia and Alabama, covering a distance of approximately 990 kilometers (615 miles) and reaching an altitude of 10,500 feet (3,200 meters).This milestone comes after 18 months of construction by American defense contractor Lockheed Martin. The contract for the project, signed in 2019 under a foreign military sale with the US government, is valued at $1.4 billion. It includes five C-130Js, along with engines, spare parts, avionics, and communication systems.The new C-130Js will gradually replace New Zealand's aging C-130H Hercules systems, which have been in service for over five decades. The fleet will be stationed at the Royal New Zealand Air Force Base Auckland and operated by the agency's No. 40 Squadron.According to Air Force Chief Air Vice-Marshal Darryn Webb, the C-130J offers greater range, speed, and capacity compared to its predecessor, the C-130H. This modernization effort aims to enhance the interoperability between New Zealand and its closest defense partner, the Royal Australian Air Force.In addition to the aircraft acquisition, New Zealand has been investing in training facilities. Last year, the country completed the initial construction phase of a flight simulator for C-130J pilots in Auckland. Lockheed Martin also received a $38-million contract in 2022 to supply a separate system to train C-130J operators on the aircraft's weapon systems.The C-130J Super Hercules measures 34 meters (112 feet) in length, with a wingspan of 40 meters (131 feet). It is powered by 6-bladed propellers and four 4,637-horsepower turboprop engines, allowing for a maximum speed of 362 knots (670 kilometers/417 miles per hour) and reaching altitudes of up to 40,386 feet (12,310 meters). The aircraft is operated by three personnel and can carry up to 92 passengers.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-06 06:11:33

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Defense NewsEuropeSea Giraffe 1X Multi-Modal radar, showcased at booth 701 from April 8-10, 2024, offers a versatile solution for both air and surface surveillance. Operating on a tactical X-band AESA solid-state platform, the SG1X boasts a compact size, lightweight, and low power consumption, ensuring seamless integration onto various naval, surface, or ground platforms without compromising stability.Equipped with a Deployment Set configuration, the SG1X facilitates mobility and adaptability across different operational environments. Its key features include simultaneous air and surface surveillance capabilities, Rocket Artillery Mortar (RAM) detection, and Counter-Unmanned Aerial System (C-UAS) functionality through the 'Drone Tracker' feature.With an impressive update rate of 60 RPM, the SG1X ensures fast reaction times and accurate detection of small targets, including drones and small Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). Additionally, it supports electronic counter-countermeasures (ECCM) with side lobe blanking and cancellation, enhancing its effectiveness against potential threats.The SG1X provides high-precision three-dimensional (3D) information for all detected targets, facilitating target classification, identification, and integration with weapons systems. Its capabilities contribute to Maritime Domain Awareness and Sea Denial and Control, enabling detection, identification, classification, and tracking of air and surface threats.Whether operating independently or integrated into existing combat management systems, the SG1X offers flexibility in sensor cooperation and data fusion, enhancing overall situational awareness and operational effectiveness in maritime environments.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-06 06:01:25

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Defense NewsRussia Ukraine WarA Russian strike on Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city, killed six civilians and injured 10 early on Saturday, regional officials said.Ukraine's national police said the attack was launched by drones. It published pictures of blazes that had broken out on city streets and next to buildings."As of this morning, there are 6 dead and 10 wounded as a result of the night strike on Shevchenkivskyi district," Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov said on the Telegram messaging app."The attack hit residential areas - at least nine high-rise buildings, three dormitories, a number of administrative buildings, a shop, a petrol station, a service station and cars were damaged," he said.The strike had occurred just after midnight, news reports said.Kharkiv, in Ukraine's northeast, has been a frequent Russian target, with attacks intensifying in recent weeks. On Wednesday, a drone attack on the city killed four people and badly damaged apartment blocks.President Voldodymyr Zelenskiy's chief of Staff, Andriy Yermak, told the news outlet Politico in an interview published on Thursday, that he saw Kharkiv as the most likely target for any new Russian offensive in May or June.Kharkiv regional Governor Oleh Synehubov reported a strike on a residential building and a missile attack on a village north of Kharkiv city. No casualties were reported in either incident.Air raid alerts remained in effect for Kharkiv and most of the country, including the capital Kyiv, for several hours after the strikes.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-06 05:53:36