Recently, Ukraine struck a major blow to the Russian war machine with a drone attack targeting the Signal radio plant located in Stavropol Krai. This factory is about 311 miles from Ukrainian-held areas and has been a key supplier of electronic warfare gear for Russian forces.
A representative from Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) revealed to the Kyiv Independent that this plant was not just another facility; it was integral to Russia’s military manufacturing system.
The report noted that one drone strike hit a building that contained expensive imported tech, like computer numerical control machinery. Another strike took out a separate structure housing an electronics workshop.
The source emphasized, “The SBU is continuously working to degrade enemy operations against Ukraine. Every strike hampers production lines and weakens their military capacity.” They also pointed out that this facility was under sanctions from the EU, USA, Ukraine, and Japan. Videos shared on Telegram by the Russian media outlet Astra showed the aftermath of the bombardment.
Stavropol Krai Governor Vladimir Vladimirov confirmed the drone strikes, indicating that industrial sites were targeted and a minor fire resulted. Fortunately, there were no casualties reported.
Meanwhile, Russia’s Defense Ministry claimed that they managed to shoot down 54 Ukrainian drones during the night across eight different regions. However, they didn’t mention any drone interceptions over Stavropol Krai specifically.
This assault comes amid rising concerns that Russia is conscripting 18-year-olds into military service, contravening Vladimir Putin’s previous statements that this wouldn’t happen. Putin has repeatedly assured his citizens that no young teens would be drafted, but recent facts are surfacing showing at least 245 teenagers have died while fighting in Ukraine over the last couple of years.
A fresh government regulation allows newly graduated students to join the military service through voluntary enlistment. Investigations by BBC Russia revealed cases of young men dying in Ukraine shortly after turning 18.
Take, for instance, Alexander Petlinsky, who was signed up just two weeks past his birthday, only to lose his life 20 days later. His aunt shared during a memorial that he had aspirations of becoming a doctor but also dreamt of serving at the front when the conflict began at the tender age of 15.
“As a proud mother of a Russian citizen, I support my son, but as his mom, this grief is unbearable,” lamented Elena, Alexander’s mother to the BBC.
Reports indicate that rather than a large-scale mobilization, Russia is tempting young men with substantial monetary incentives to enlist. The state propaganda machinery continues to actively promote the war, with teachers mandated to conduct classes focusing on this so-called “special military operation,” and returning soldiers even visit schools to engage students.
