According to spokesperson Yuriy Ignat of the Ukrainian Air Force, Russian military aviation significantly decreased its combat activity in the south after the Ukrainian air defense destroyed three Su-34 Fullbacks on December 22nd.
Ignat reported a significant decrease in Russian aviation operations in the Kherson region following the downing of three Su-34 combat aircraft by Ukrainian Defense Forces. According to Ignat, this decline in aerial presence indicates a strategic shift by Russian forces, embracing a more cautious approach amid speculation about a potential ‘wandering Patriot.’
Stressing the need to maintain pressure on adversaries, Ignat highlighted the altered tactics after the Su-34s. He noted that the enemy’s activities in the Kherson region have notably dwindled, demonstrating an understanding of potential threats.
Confirming Russian efforts to ascertain the cause behind the downing of their Su-34 aircraft, Ignat pointed out that Russian unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have been deployed for reconnaissance purposes. He emphasized the necessity to neutralize even reconnaissance drones due to their intelligence-gathering objectives.
On December 24th, Ukrainian Air Defense successfully eliminated two additional Russian military aircraft, including a Su-34 along the Mariupol direction and a Su-30 over the Black Sea. This follows the destruction of three Su-34 fighter-bombers on December 22nd.
