Ukraine war: Crimea shipyard attack, 'Moscow eyeing second mobilisation', counteroffensive 'failure'

Russia’s defence ministry said Ukraine launched 10 cruise missiles and three sea drones at a shipyard in Sevastopol, home of Russia's Black Sea fleet.

A large fire broke out and 24 people were injured in Wednesday morning's attack on the Russian-annexed Crimean peninsula in the Black Sea.

The strike appeared to be one of the biggest in recent weeks, even though Crimea - seized by Moscow in 2014 - has been frequently targeted in the war. 

There was no immediate comment from Ukrainian officials, who rarely acknowledge Kyiv’s responsibility for attacks on Crimea or Russian regions.

The Sevastopol Shipyard is of strategic importance to Russia as a repair facility for its Black Sea fleet. 

Kyiv has stepped up attacks on Russian territory in recent months, against the backdrop of its counter-offensive. 

Experts told Euronews in September this strategy had psychological and military objectives, but warned it could "backfire" in significant ways for Ukraine. 

The Kremlin’s inner circle is arguing about whether a second wave of reserve mobilisation is needed, the Insitute of the Study of War reported Wednesday morning. 

A Russian Telegram channel with alleged connections to Russian security sources claimed certain Russian officials are “seriously” preparing for another call-up of around 175,000 troops. 

This would be ahead of its bi-annual conscription cycle, which starts on 1 October. 

The channel alleged an influential group of Russian hawks wants stricter conscription measures, such as restricting certain individuals from getting exemptions - something that has sparked major disagreements within the Kremlin. 

It also pointed to fears of potential kickbacks from other Russian officials and wider society. 

Russia announced a partial