Russia strikes westernmost Ukrainian region, US factory just 22 miles from EU border

Russia carried out its first large-scale attack on the westernmost region of Zakarpattia overnight in the city of Mukachevo located just 22 miles from the European Union border. Fifteen civilians were injured with varying degrees of severity.

Two projectiles also struck the U.S-owned Flex plant, where firefighters battled the blaze for several hours.

Formerly known as Flextronics, the Texas-based company is a prominent global electronics manufacturing services and original design manufacturer company. Earlier this year, Russia had also struck a Boeing research and development center in Kyiv during an airborne attack. 

“Several cruise missiles were lobbed against an American-owned enterprise in Zakarpattia. It was a regular civilian business, supported by American investment, producing everyday items like coffee machines,” Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.

Russian forces also struck Lviv with drones and missiles, killing one person and injuring three others, overnight on Aug. 21. The attack damaged 26 buildings, tore off five roofs, shattered 155 windows, and hit a kindergarten, according to Lviv mayor Andrii Sadovyi.

Explosions were also reported in Lutsk, where a 48-year-old woman was injured. Local authorities confirmed minor damage to several buildings.

“All night and into the morning, the region — and Lutsk in particular — suffered from attacks by enemy drones and missiles. In total, there were 12 enemy targets,” the regional military administration said.

Emergency crews are working across several regions, Zelenskyy said. In total, Russia launched 57 attack drones and 40 missiles against Ukraine overnight.

“A significant portion was intercepted, but unfortunately, not all,” Zelenskyy said.

He urged the international community to respond to Russia’s latest assault.

“And the Russians carried out this attack as if nothing has changed at all, as if there are no global efforts to stop this war. […] There is still no signal from Moscow that they truly intend to engage in substantive negotiations and end this war. Pressure is needed. Strong sanctions, strong tariffs,” Zelenskyy said.