The shootdown of a Russian Il-76 transport plane has sparked controversy over who ordered it, with Russia claiming it was hit by US-made Patriot missiles fired by Ukrainian forces. The incident, which resulted in the deaths of 74 individuals, including Ukrainian prisoners of war, has raised questions about the involvement of Ukrainian military intelligence and its leader, Kyrylo Budanov. Russia has called for an international investigation, while Ukraine denies receiving any prior notification from Russia about the flight. The situation has prompted inquiries into the nature of the advisory sent to Ukraine, the actions taken by both sides in prior prisoner exchanges, the personnel manning the Patriot system, and the potential involvement of American operators.
Ukraine's 93rd separate mechanized brigade claimed to have shot down a Russian Su-24 supersonic bomber near Bakhmut, with footage showing a fiery aftermath and an ejected pilot. The Soviet-era bomber is the second recorded takedown during the war, according to weapons-tracking site Oryx. The grinding battle for Bakhmut has been the focal point of Russia's front line, with huge losses on both sides.
Ukraine's 93rd separate mechanized brigade claimed to have shot down a Russian Su-24 bomber near Bakhmut, with footage showing a fiery aftermath and an ejected pilot. It is unclear when and where the event took place. The Su-24 is a Soviet-era bomber, and if confirmed, it would be the second recorded takedown of one during the war. The ongoing battle for Bakhmut has been the focal point of Russia's front line, with huge losses on both sides.
