Ukraine downs 23 out of 24 Shahed drones overnight, launches investigation into Russia’s war crimes

On the night of May 5th, Ukraine's air defense units achieved a remarkable feat by intercepting 23 out of 24 "Shahed" drones, as confirmed by Commander Mykola Oleshchuk. Throughout the conflict, Russia has persistently launched drones, unmanned aerial vehicles, and missiles into civilian areas of Ukraine, prompting repeated pleas from Ukrainian officials for increased air defense support from Western allies.

The recent attack saw Shahed drones deployed from Kursk Oblast and Cape Chauda in Crimea, areas converted into military bases during Russia's decade-long occupation. However, Ukrainian anti-aircraft forces swiftly neutralized the threat, destroying the incoming drones.

In the aftermath, Serhii Lysak, overseeing the regional military administration, reported damages in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, including infrastructure, vehicles, and a shop. Additionally, the city of Nikopol faced heavy artillery shelling, causing damage to enterprises and private property, though thankfully no casualties were reported.

Mykolaiv and Kherson oblasts also bore the brunt of artillery fire, with 11 settlements affected, and one civilian injured. In Sumy, mortar fire and explosions rocked several districts, further escalating tensions.

Meanwhile, in Kharkiv, a Russian drone attack on May 5th resulted in five injuries, including a child. Fires broke out in multiple locations, causing substantial damage to buildings and necessitating emergency response efforts.

The Kharkiv Regional Prosecutor's Office has initiated a pre-trial investigation into potential violations of international laws by Russian forces. A residential area was struck by drone debris, causing injuries and property damage, underscoring the indiscriminate nature of the attacks.

As Ukraine celebrated Easter Day on May 5th, the Kharkiv City Council advised civilians to remain vigilant despite the festivities, given the ongoing security threats. Elsewhere, in Zaporizhzhia Oblast, Russian aggression continued unabated, with 345 reported attacks within a single day, targeting numerous populated areas and exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.