Why it matters:
The attack marks a significant escalation in Ukraine’s drone warfare strategy, pushing the conflict deeper into Russian territory. It also underscores the growing role of unmanned aerial combat as both sides test new tactics while diplomatic efforts to end the war struggle to gain traction.
The big picture:
The overnight strike was Ukraine’s biggest drone offensive on Russian soil since the war began three years ago.
The strike hit residential areas, prompting condemnation from the Kremlin.
What they're saying:
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov accused Ukraine of deliberately targeting civilians: "The Kyiv regime is hitting social facilities and residential buildings."
Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin called it "the largest drone attack on Moscow so far" and praised Russian air defenses for preventing major damage.
Russia’s Defense Ministry stated that air defenses successfully shot down the drones, preventing what could have been a far more devastating assault.
Key points:
- Massive drone offensive: 337 Ukrainian drones were intercepted over 10 Russian regions, with 126 shot down in Kursk and 91 in Moscow’s airspace.
- At least two people were killed, and 18 others—including three children—were injured.
- Russian officials claim their air defense systems performed "very well" in repelling the attack.
Go deeper:
With Ukraine ramping up drone attacks deep inside Russian territory and Moscow vowing retaliation, the likelihood of a negotiated settlement remains uncertain.
205
Hossein Vaez
