Ukraine launches largest drone attack on Moscow
No injuries as 11 drones destroyed by Russian air defence units
Ukraine launched a significant drone attack on Moscow on Wednesday, Mayor Sergei Sobyanin reported. Russian air defence units intercepted and destroyed 11 drones heading towards the capital. Some drones were taken down over Podolsk, a city approximately 38 km south of the Kremlin.
Sobyanin described the incident as one of the largest drone attacks on Moscow, mentioning it on the Telegram messaging app in the early hours of the morning. He confirmed that there were no injuries or damages reported from the attack.
While Russia advances in eastern Ukraine, it faces challenges in repelling Ukrainian forces from its Kursk region. This follows a major Ukrainian incursion through Russia’s western border, marking the largest such invasion since World War Two.
Typically, Ukrainian drone strikes targeting Moscow have been limited and caused minimal damage. However, Wednesday’s assault appeared more substantial than the May 2023 attack, which saw at least eight drones destroyed. President Vladimir Putin had then labelled it as an attempt by Kyiv to provoke Russia.
Russian authorities often disclose only the number of drones intercepted by air defence units, seldom revealing the full extent of attacks unless civilian areas are impacted. On Wednesday, the Russian defence ministry reported that air defence units also destroyed 23 drones over Bryansk, six over Belgorod, three over Kaluga, and two over Kursk, with no casualties or damage reported in Bryansk.
Additionally, two drones were destroyed over the Tula region, and a missile was intercepted over the Rostov region, according to regional governors. The Russian defence ministry did not include Tula or Rostov in its official statement.
In recent months, Kyiv has intensified its air attacks on Russian territory, aiming to disrupt infrastructure crucial to Moscow’s war efforts. These actions are framed as responses to Russia’s ongoing strikes on Ukrainian land.
Other Perspective
- The Japan Times reports that Russia’s drone strikes in Ukraine continue, with the latest attack targeting a civilian area, sparking concerns over the escalation of the conflict and the humanitarian crisis.(read more)
- The Kyiv Independent reports on a massive drone attack in Moscow Oblast, where Russia allegedly downed ten Ukrainian drones, according to the Mayor.(read more)
- The Economic Times reports that Ukraine launched drone attacks on Moscow and other regions, with no casualties or damage reported.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
How many drones were destroyed in the recent attack on Moscow?
Eleven drones were destroyed.
Were there any casualties or damage reported from the drone attack on Moscow?
No, there were no casualties or damage reported.
Where were some of the drones destroyed during the attack on Moscow?
Some drones were destroyed over the city of Podolsk.
Did any other regions in Russia report drone attacks?
Yes, Bryansk, Belgorod, Kaluga, and Kursk regions reported drone attacks.
What is Ukraine’s stated aim for increasing air attacks on Russian territory?
Ukraine aims to destroy infrastructure key to Moscow’s war efforts.
