Ukrainian forces successfully intercepted a Russian missile attack targeting Kyiv in the early hours of August 18.
North Korean Missiles
The attack occurred around 5:00 a.m. local time (2:00 a.m. GMT), with the enemy reportedly using ballistic weapons.
Ukrainian authorities stated that it is "highly likely" the missiles were North Korean-made KN-23 ballistic missiles, according to Ziare.
The KN-23 is a short-range ballistic missile developed by North Korea, resembling Russia's Iskander missile in design and capabilities. It is known for its high maneuverability and low-altitude flight path, which complicates interception by traditional missile defense systems.
The missile can carry a variety of warheads, including nuclear, and has a range of approximately 400 to 600 kilometers.
Preliminary reports indicated that the missiles were intercepted before they could reach their intended targets near Kyiv.
Russian attack drones also targeted the city almost simultaneously, but they were all destroyed by Ukraine's air defense systems outside the city perimeter. The administration confirmed that no damage or casualties were reported in Kyiv as a result of the attack.
Fortifying Positions
Ukraine has been regularly hit by deadly missile and drone strikes since the onset of the conflict. In response, Kyiv continues to urge its Western allies for additional air defense systems to protect against these frequent assaults.
Western officials have accused North Korea of supplying Russia with weapons for its offensive against Ukraine in exchange for various forms of assistance, including support in the space sector.
This latest attack follows a deadly incident last weekend when a Russian missile strike on Kyiv resulted in the deaths of a 35-year-old man and his four-year-old son, with three others seriously injured, according to Ukrainian rescue services.
On Saturday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that his forces are fortifying their positions in Russia's Kursk region. Over the past ten days, Ukraine claims to have captured 82 settlements and 1,150 square kilometers of territory during a large-scale offensive
