In the latest escalation of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, Russian air defenses intercepted 34 drones of Ukraine targeting Moscow on Sunday, marking the largest attack on the Russian capital since the invasion began in 2022. The incident caused temporary closures at three Moscow airports, injured a 52-year-old woman, and sparked fires in two houses in Stanovoye, Moscow region.
Table of Contents
Russia’s Response to Ukrainian Drone Assault
According to the Russian Defense Ministry, a total of 70 drones of Ukraine were intercepted during the coordinated attack. Among these, 34 drones were downed over Moscow and surrounding regions, while others were intercepted over the Bryansk, Orlov, Kaluga, Tula, and Kursk regions. This widespread assault has raised concerns about the intensifying military exchanges between Russia and Ukraine as the war enters a critical phase.
Local Moscow authorities reported that the drones targeting the capital were shot down in the Ramenskoye, Kolomna, and Domodedovo districts. Moscow region Governor Andrei Vorobyov described the assault as “massive” and confirmed that the injured woman is being treated for burns on her face, neck, and hands.
Intensified Attacks Across Russian Regions
Andrei Klychkov, governor of the Orlov region near Moscow, stated that air defenses intercepted an additional 10 drones over his region, confirming no reported casualties. This wave of drone attacks represents a significant escalation, with Ukraine reportedly aiming to target strategic infrastructure, especially energy networks, in retaliation for Russian strikes on Ukrainian territory.
Rising Toll on Ukrainian Cities Amid Russia-Ukraine Conflict
Meanwhile, a recent series of Russian bombardments from Thursday night into Friday led to casualties in several Ukrainian cities. The Ukrainian Air Force reported that Russia launched five missiles, 92 drones, and glide bombs across the country. Air defense units successfully intercepted four missiles and 62 drones, highlighting the ongoing threat facing Ukraine’s cities as they work to bolster their defenses.
As the conflict between Russia and Ukraine continues, both sides are increasingly resorting to drone and missile strikes, affecting civilian infrastructure and intensifying the humanitarian crisis. This recent escalation underscores the high stakes and complex dynamics of the ongoing conflict, drawing the world’s attention to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.
