Tensions between Ukraine and Russia escalated as both countries engaged in significant drone attacks. According to reports, Ukraine conducted its largest drone strike on Moscow since Vladimir Putin’s invasion in 2022, while Russia retaliated with its own record air attack on Ukraine.
The Russian media reported that three airports in Moscow were temporarily shut down, and flights had to be diverted due to the drone strike. Russia claimed to have shot down 70 drones, with nearly half of them being in Moscow and the rest in western Russia. The attack resulted in at least one injury.
On the other hand, Ukraine’s armed forces claimed to have targeted an ammunition dump near the Russian city of Bryansk successfully. Videos showed multiple explosions at military warehouses, with fires visible in the night sky. Additionally, footage captured drones flying over urban areas, including residential neighborhoods and a lorry park.
The drone attacks followed a massive Russian drone barrage on Kyiv, which Ukrainian commentators believed was in response to Donald Trump’s election as the US president. Over the weekend, Moscow launched another wave of 145 drones, causing damage to the Black Sea port of Odesa. Ukrainian officials reported downing 62 UAVs and losing some en route.
Both Ukraine and Russia have advanced UAV programs, with Ukraine extending the range of its drone systems to target locations deep inside Russia. Russia, on the other hand, has introduced fiber-optic cable-controlled drones in the Kursk region, where Ukrainian troops hold control. These new drones are resistant to electronic countermeasures.
The escalating tensions come amid reports of Russia amassing 50,000 troops to launch a major assault on Ukrainian-held territory in Kursk oblast. The force reportedly includes reinforcements from North Korea and is expected to launch the attack in the coming days. Despite Russia’s efforts to recapture Ukrainian-held territory, Ukrainian forces have managed to hold their ground.
Following Trump’s victory, there has been speculation about a potential resolution to the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Zelenskyy’s conversations with Trump and Elon Musk have raised hopes for potential peace talks. While Trump’s aides have hinted at a Russia-friendly peace plan, the specifics remain uncertain.
Despite the drone attacks and military buildup, there was no apparent panic in Moscow following the incidents. Life in the capital seemed to continue as usual, with residents going about their daily routines.
