Ukraine hit intelligence reports 4 Russian S-400 systems in Dzhankoi

According to the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine (DIU), a significant strike was carried out by the Ukrainian Defense Forces on a military airfield in Dzhankoi, Crimea, which is currently under temporary occupation. The operation, conducted on April 17, 2024, resulted in the destruction or critical damage of several strategic targets, including:

• Four S-400 surface-to-air missile systems,
• Three radar stations,
• An air defense assets command post, and
• The Fundament-M air defense command and control system.

This successful operation demonstrates the effectiveness and precision of the Ukrainian Armed Forces in targeting key military infrastructure within the occupied territory.

Russians are trying to capture Chasiv Yar

Nazar Voloshyn, the spokesperson for the Khortytsia Operational Strategic Group of Forces, has provided updates on the situation in Chasiv Yar, revealing that despite the continued efforts of Ukrainian Armed Forces to maintain control, Russian soldiers persist in their attempts to seize the city. They are resorting to aggressive tactics, including the use of guided bombs, destroying critical civilian infrastructure.

Speaking during a national joint 24/7 newscast, Voloshyn emphasized that the situation in Chasiv Yar remains challenging, with Russia relentlessly pushing towards the administrative borders of Donetsk Oblast. Despite this, the Defence Forces of Ukraine are effectively managing the situation.

Voloshyn clarified, "There is no direct enemy presence within the city. However, the enemy continues to leverage its aerial superiority and firepower, launching assaults with missiles and large-caliber artillery ammunition."

He further lamented the devastating impact of Russian airstrikes, noting that they are targeting both Ukrainian defenders and civilian infrastructure. According to Voloshyn, Russian aviation is dropping an alarming number of bombs on a daily basis, ranging from 20 to 30, or sometimes even more.

Highlighting the grim tactics employed by the Russian forces, Voloshyn underscored their strategy to obliterate Ukrainian cities, leaving behind nothing but "piles of dust" in their quest for control.

Russia targeted Ivano-Frankivsk during the night drone attack

The Ukrainian Air Force has confirmed that Ivano-Frankivsk was the primary target of the Russian Shahed drone attack during the night of April 17-18. Fortunately, Ukrainian forces successfully neutralized all incoming drones.

According to Illia Yevlash, spokesperson for Ukraine's Air Force, the enemy deployed their drones along standard routes, originating from Cape Chauda in temporarily occupied Crimea and the territory of Primorsko-Akhtarsk in the Russian Federation. The drones attempted to navigate through various terrains, including rugged areas along rivers, in an effort to evade detection. They executed a zigzag pattern, aiming to confuse Ukrainian defenses. Despite these tactics, Ukrainian Defense Forces managed to intercept and destroy all 13 UAVs.

Regrettably, Ivano-Frankivsk bore the brunt of the Russian drone assault, suffering considerable damage. However, Ruslan Martsinkiv, the Mayor of Ivano-Frankivsk, clarified that although the city faced a significant threat, Ukrainian air defense effectively thwarted the attack. He refuted claims made by Russian propagandists regarding hits in the city center, asserting that all targets were successfully neutralized, and any observed smoke was a result of falling debris.

Furthermore, Martsinkiv highlighted an incident where one drone loitered over water for several hours near the border between Dnipropetrovsk and Poltava oblasts. This situation posed challenges for mobile air defense units in reaching and engaging the target effectively.

Addressing the shortage of air defense systems, Martsinkiv emphasized the critical need for missiles capable of countering cruise missiles, particularly for portable anti-aircraft missile systems. He stressed the necessity for additional resources and equipment, including mobile fire groups equipped to detect and engage drones effectively, especially during nighttime operations.

Death toll of Russian attack on Chernihiv rises to 18

A devastating Russian assault struck Chernihiv on the morning of April 17, resulting in the tragic loss of 18 lives and causing injuries to 77 others, including four children.

According to the State Emergency Service of Ukraine, as of the morning of April 18, rescue efforts have been tirelessly underway. Three individuals have been successfully rescued from the rubble, providing a glimmer of hope amid the devastation. Additionally, psychological assistance has been extended to 58 individuals affected by the harrowing events.

The aftermath of the attack has seen a monumental cleanup effort, with 1,580 tonnes of construction debris already cleared from the scene. Remarkably, 71% of the demolished portion of the building has been meticulously cleared, illustrating the unwavering dedication of emergency responders.

Despite the progress made, emergency rescue operations persist as teams work tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of those impacted by this tragic event.