Fact Check: "On June 9-10, 2023, Russian forces launched hundreds of drones and seven missiles in an attack on Kyiv, damaging buildings including the office of Boeing."
What We Know
On June 9-10, 2023, Russian forces conducted a significant aerial assault on Ukraine, particularly targeting Kyiv. Reports indicate that the attack involved the launch of approximately 479 drones and 20 missiles, which is described as one of the largest strikes to date (BBC, Liga). The Ukrainian Air Force confirmed that their defense systems managed to intercept a substantial number of these threats, but the attack still resulted in casualties and damage to infrastructure.
The attack on Kyiv led to destruction in several districts, including residential buildings and a business center, with reports of injuries among civilians (Liga). Notably, the office of Boeing in Ukraine was among the structures reported to have sustained damage during this assault (Reuters).
Analysis
The claim that Russian forces launched hundreds of drones and seven missiles is partially true. While the total number of drones launched was indeed around 479, the number of missiles used in this specific attack is reported as 20, not seven (Liga, NY Times). This discrepancy suggests that while the scale of the drone attack was accurately represented, the missile count was understated.
The sources cited are generally reliable, with major news organizations like the BBC and Reuters providing corroborated information. However, the specific details about the number of missiles vary slightly across reports, which could stem from differences in the timing of the assessments or the classification of the types of munitions used (BBC, Reuters).
Furthermore, the context of the attack is crucial. It was described as a response to previous Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian military bases, indicating a retaliatory motive from the Russian side (BBC). This context is essential for understanding the broader implications of the attack.
Conclusion
The claim is Partially True. While it accurately reflects the scale of the drone assault and acknowledges damage to buildings, it misstates the number of missiles involved. The attack was indeed extensive and caused significant damage, including to Boeing's offices, but the specifics regarding missile usage need clarification.
Sources
- Russian air attack damaged Boeing offices in Ukraine, FT reports
- Ukraine Says Russia Launched 499 Missiles and Drones in Biggest Air Attack
- Russia launches 'massive' strikes days after Ukrainian drone attack - BBC
- Russia launches biggest drone attack on Ukraine, targets military airfield - Reuters
- Massive shelling of Kyiv on June 10 - what is known about the attack
- Zelenskyy demands 'action from America' after latest Russian drone attack
- Russian air attack damaged Boeing offices in Ukraine, FT reports
- Ukraine war latest: Russia carries out one of largest attacks against Kyiv