Damage from the attacks is unclear, but Moscow flights were diverted. The strike occurs amid Russia’s ongoing Ukraine invasion, controlling under one-fifth of its territory
Moscow
Russia reported a large-scale drone attack by Ukraine on Thursday, with at least 287 drones shot down across several regions, including the Moscow area. Moscow and its surrounding region, home to more than 22 million people, saw around 40 drones intercepted, according to Russia’s Defence Ministry.
The full extent of damage from the attacks remains unclear, but flights at all major Moscow airports were temporarily diverted. This latest strike comes amid ongoing tensions as Russia continues its invasion of Ukraine, which began in February 2022. Currently, Russia controls just under one-fifth of Ukrainian territory.
Ukraine has been increasingly targeting Russian energy infrastructure with missiles and drones. On Wednesday, Ukrainian sea drones disabled a tanker transporting Russian oil through Ukraine’s exclusive economic zone in the Black Sea, heading to the Russian port of Novorossiysk.
The ongoing conflict has also affected international trade, causing insurance costs for ships in the Black Sea to rise sharply. Insurers are now reviewing policies daily due to the risk posed by ongoing military actions.
This attack represents a significant escalation in Ukraine’s aerial and maritime tactics against Russia. Analysts say the continued drone strikes underline Ukraine’s strategy to disrupt Russian energy exports and supply chains while putting pressure on Russian defenses.
The situation remains tense, with both sides likely preparing for further military actions in the coming days.
