Heightened Risks Loom Over Ukraine Independence Day Amid Russian Threats

The U.S. embassy in Kyiv has warned of a heightened risk of Russian missile and drone attacks throughout Ukraine in the coming days, as the country prepares to mark its Independence Day. Since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022, there have been 9,600 missile and 14,000 drone attacks on Ukraine.

The U.S. Embassy in Kyiv has issued a warning about an increased risk of Russian missile and drone attacks in Ukraine as the country approaches its Independence Day, marking 33 years since breaking away from the Soviet Union.

According to Ukraine's top military commander Oleksandr Syrskyi, Russia has launched 9,600 missiles and 14,000 drones since its full-scale invasion commenced in February 2022. The embassy underscored the elevated threat linked to Ukraine's Independence Day on August 24.

For Ukrainians, this year's Independence Day bears additional significance amid heightened patriotic sentiments following the ongoing conflict. The date also coincides with a recent Ukrainian incursion into Russia's Kursk region, prompting Russian President Vladimir Putin to vow a 'worthy response'.

(With inputs from agencies.)