Ukrainian Teacher Deflects Russian Missile in Combat

On November 17, Natalia Grabarchuk, a former kindergarten teacher now serving in Ukraine's air defense forces, successfully shot down a Russian cruise missile with her first combat shot using a 9K38 Igla MANPADS during a large-scale attack by Russian forces, which involved over 210 aerial targets. The Ukrainian air defense reportedly intercepted 144 of these targets, showcasing the effectiveness of both advanced and portable defense systems. Grabarchuk's achievement was highlighted in a video showing her taking aim and subsequently experiencing disbelief at her successful hit, illustrating the emotional toll and determination of civilians turned soldiers in the conflict. She has undergone extensive military training prior to this moment and expressed her focus and resolve during the launch. This incident underlines the growing involvement of ordinary citizens in the war, driven by a sense of duty to defend their homeland. The attack underscores the ongoing challenges Ukraine faces with Russian missile assaults on its infrastructure.