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A Ukrainian drone attack on a factory in Izhevsk, Russia, over 1,000km from the border, has left three people dead and 35 injured, Russian authorities report. The strike targeted the Kupol Electromechanical Plant, which produces Tor missile systems, radar stations, and Osa air defence systems, according to Russian and Ukrainian sources. Ten of the injured are in serious condition, said Udmurtia Governor Aleksandr Brechalov, who briefed President Vladimir Putin.
A Ukrainian Security Service (SBU) official confirmed to BBC Ukraine that two long-range drones struck the facility, located 1,300km from Ukraine. “These operations weaken Russia’s military production and show no part of its infrastructure is safe,” the official stated. Social media footage verified by the BBC showed an explosion on the factory roof, followed by thick black smoke. Russia’s aviation authority temporarily restricted flights at Izhevsk airport. This marks the second Ukrainian drone attack on the Kupol plant since November, with the prior strike causing no casualties. Meanwhile, Russia launched a record 537 drones and missiles across Ukraine over the weekend, targeting Kyiv and Lviv. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky posthumously awarded the Hero of Ukraine title to F-16 pilot Lieutenant Colonel Maksym Ustymenko, killed during the defence against the barrage. On the battlefield, Russia’s advance in Ukraine’s Sumy region has stalled, but unconfirmed reports suggest Moscow’s forces captured a village in Dnipropetrovsk. Ceasefire talks, initiated by US President Donald Trump since May, have yielded no results. Putin expressed readiness for new negotiations, but Zelensky accused Russia of prolonging the war, stating, “Russia is not seeking peace but preparing new operations, including in Europe.” US envoy Keith Kellogg criticised Russia’s tactics, urging an end to civilian attacks. Moscow denied stalling talks and thanked the US for its support. The conflict continues to escalate, with both sides intensifying long-range strikes and no resolution in sight.
