Ukraine has carried out its largest drone offensive on Moscow in two years, targeting the Russian capital in a coordinated overnight attack that damaged infrastructure, triggered fires, and disrupted flight operations, according to Russian authorities and state media.
The Russian state news agency, TASS, reported that air defence systems intercepted more than 40 drones heading toward Moscow, while fragments from downed drones caused damage in several parts of the capital region.
Moscow Mayor, Sergei Sobyanin, confirmed that multiple drones were shot down, adding that emergency services were deployed to affected areas to contain fires and assess damage.
Authorities said flights at all major Moscow airports were temporarily suspended as a precautionary measure during the attack, according to Russia’s aviation agency and Reuters reports.
The assault formed part of a wider wave of drone strikes across Russian territory, with air defence systems reportedly activated in several regions beyond the capital.
Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelensky, described the strikes as a “justified response” to continued Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities and infrastructure.
He said Ukraine’s long-range operations were becoming more precise and effective, adding that recent strikes reflected improved targeting capability.
Among the reported targets was the Moscow Oil Refinery in the Kapotnya district, which had also been struck earlier in the week. Video footage geolocated by international media reportedly showed smoke and explosions at the facility following the attack.
Local authorities also reported damage to residential and commercial structures, including an apartment building in Zhukovsky and a shopping centre in Moscow, due to falling debris.
In response, Russia launched its own overnight missile and drone strikes targeting multiple regions in Ukraine, focusing on energy and infrastructure facilities.
The renewed exchange of attacks comes amid intensified hostilities in the ongoing war, now in its fifth year, with both sides increasing long-range strikes on strategic assets.
Western allies, including NATO members, have continued discussions on military support for Ukraine, with officials reiterating commitments to strengthen air defence capabilities.
NATO Secretary-General, Mark Rutte, said allied discussions were ongoing to ensure continued support for Ukraine’s defence needs, including missile interception systems and weapons supplies.
The United States and other NATO members are also reviewing defence cooperation frameworks as the conflict continues to reshape security dynamics in Europe.
The latest escalation underscores growing concerns over the widening scope of the war and its impact on regional stability.
