Moscow: Russia has reported its largest Ukrainian drone attack since the start of the full-scale war, with nearly 200 drones targeting the Moscow region and causing fires, injuries and widespread disruption.
According to regional governor Andrei Vorobyov, at least 17 people were injured in the attacks. Russia’s Defence Ministry said almost 1,000 drones and four cruise missiles were intercepted and destroyed across the country within a 24-hour period.
Several locations around Moscow were affected, including the Kapotnya oil refinery, which was reportedly struck for the third time in a month. Fires broke out at the site, sending large columns of smoke into the sky. A nearby shopping centre was also reported to be on fire after being hit by falling debris.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the operation was a response to a recent Russian attack on Kyiv that damaged a major religious landmark. He described the strikes as “long-range sanctions” and renewed calls for diplomatic efforts to end the conflict.
The attacks also disrupted air travel, with Moscow’s four airports temporarily suspending operations and more than 500 flights reportedly cancelled or delayed.
The latest escalation highlights the continuing intensity of the conflict, with both sides carrying out long-range strikes deep inside each other’s territory.
