Funeral services were held in Poltava, Ukraine, on Saturday for victims of a deadly Russian airstrike, as Ukraine’s president announced plans to boost domestic military production by establishing underground weapons factories. The funerals honored victims of a Russian missile attack on a military training facility that resulted in over 50 fatalities and more than 300 injuries.
Mourners, including families, residents, and officials, gathered at the Cathedral of the Assumption in Poltava for a solemn ceremony. Sobbing relatives stood beside caskets draped in Ukrainian flags, with an air raid siren sounding during the service. Local residents paid their respects as hearses carrying the victims passed by en route to a military cemetery for burial.
Recent Russian missile and drone attacks on Ukrainian cities have increased, with strikes targeting energy infrastructure and residential areas. These attacks highlight Moscow’s long-range capabilities, causing significant damage to Ukraine’s power grid and disrupting essential services like heat and water supplies.
Overnight, the Ukrainian capital faced multiple Russian drone attacks, which were intercepted by air defenses. The Ukrainian Air Force reported the launch of 67 drones across the country, with defenses active in 11 regions. Efforts resulted in the downing of 58 drones, while three others were destroyed by electronic weapons systems, preventing casualties and damage.
Meanwhile, a Russian artillery assault on Kostiantynivka in eastern Ukraine claimed three lives and injured three others. President Zelenskyy confirmed a death toll of 55 from the September 3 strike in Poltava, with 328 individuals sustaining injuries. Zelenskyy reiterated concerns about ongoing Russian threats of missile and drone strikes, advocating for the removal of restrictions on using Western-supplied weapons against Russia.
Ukraine is escalating its weapons production, establishing underground facilities to ensure soldiers can defend themselves even in case of delayed supplies. Zelenskyy emphasized the development of new drones and missiles to push back against Russia, expressing hope that pressure would lead to a pursuit of peace. The conflict continues to escalate, with Kyiv retaliating with strikes on Russian territory, causing emergency situations like fires and evacuations.
