Russian glide bombs escalate attacks in Ukraine's Kostyantynivka

Russian drone attacks and glide bombs are intensifying in Ukraine, particularly in the eastern city of Kostyantynivka. Residents like Maryna have learned to recognize the sound of these deadly bombs. “Six people didn’t get back up,” she recalled after a recent strike. Kostyantynivka, once safer due to its distance from the front line, now faces repeated bombardment. Russian forces have developed glide bombs that can travel long distances and carry significant explosive power. These bombs are difficult for the Ukrainian airforce to intercept. As a result, towns like Kostyantynivka have been heavily targeted. The increase in attacks has led local officials to encourage evacuations. In February, attacks rose dramatically, increasing tenfold. Children were ordered to leave the city last autumn due to the rising threats. The eastern parts of the city experience constant drone assaults, which have also deterred businesses. Volodymyr, Maryna’s husband, noted that the explosions have harmed his livestock and decreased his customer base. Both Ukrainian and Russian forces are employing drones widely in the conflict. Ukrainian soldiers like Ronin and Archie are currently training with new technology to counter the drone threat. Both sides have been forced to develop advanced tactics to protect themselves from these aerial assaults. The presence of drones complicates medical aid efforts, as ambulances must operate at night to avoid detection. Medical personnel, like the anaesthetist "Frenchie," say the risk zone has expanded significantly since the start of the war. Amidst these dangers, Maryna and Volodymyr hope for peace talks, as pushed by U.S. leader Donald Trump. “Let them stop bombing people,” Maryna said, expressing a desire for an end to the violence.