Ukraine celebrates the New Year with the sounds of sirens and explosions. On the night of December 31, 2024, Russian invaders once again attacked peaceful cities, using kamikaze drones and creating a ballistic threat. These actions are explained not only by military strategy, but also by attempts at psychological pressure.
Military expert Pavlo Narozhnyi noted that the choice of dates for the attacks is not accidental. Russia traditionally attaches great importance to symbolic dates, and January 1 is no exception. “This is done precisely to intimidate the civilian population in order to spoil the holiday,” the expert noted.
According to official information:
- On the night of December 31, the Russians launched Shahed strike UAVs.
- At 03:00, an additional ballistic missile threat appeared.
- An airstrike swept across Ukraine on the morning of December 31.
Enemy strikes were launched on Kyiv, where the air defense system was operating effectively. No civilian casualties have been recorded in the capital so far, but the situation is more complicated in other regions.
In the city of Shostka, Sumy region, high-rise buildings, educational institutions, and social facilities were hit. Community leader Mykola Noga reported significant damage: 12 high-rise buildings and two educational institutions were destroyed.
Why do Russians attack during the holidays?
The Russian attacks on New Year's Eve are not only an attempt to inflict physical harm, but also psychological pressure on Ukrainians. Russia is trying to create an atmosphere of fear and destabilization. As Pavlo Narozhnyi noted, such actions are aimed at making Ukrainians feel uneasy even on days that symbolize hope and new beginnings.
Despite everything, Ukrainians demonstrate resilience and strength of spirit. Every time after attacks, the country quickly restores damaged facilities, and the population supports each other in difficult times.
This New Year once again shows that the enemy may try to destroy the festive atmosphere, but is unable to break the spirit of the people who have chosen freedom and dignity.
