A large-scale drone attack originating from Ukraine has struck several locations in Moscow, notably igniting a fire at an oil refinery in the Kapotnya district, which sent thick smoke billowing over the Russian capital. This assault led to temporary suspensions at major airports such as Sheremetyevo, Vnukovo, and Zhukovsky as air defense systems were activated to counter the threat.
Authorities in Moscow reported that dozens of drones were aimed at the city, with the majority being intercepted. However, several drones managed to breach defenses and hit key infrastructure. In addition to the refinery, damage was also reported at a shopping center and residential buildings in the broader Moscow region. Emergency services responded promptly, and traffic restrictions were put in place in the affected areas.
This offensive comes amid a period of intensified cross-border strikes between Russia and Ukraine. Previous Ukrainian drone attacks had already disrupted operations at refineries, adding strain to Russia’s fuel supply chain. In retaliation, Russia has heightened its missile and drone strikes on Ukrainian cities, contributing to the escalating aerial conflict between the two nations.
Moscow officials have described this incident as one of the most significant drone attacks on the capital to date. Meanwhile, Ukrainian officials have framed such operations as retaliatory measures against ongoing Russian aggression. The exact number of drones intercepted and the extent of the damage remain difficult to verify independently, as both sides present conflicting reports.
The latest exchange of strikes underscores the widening scope of the war, with both Russia and Ukraine increasingly targeting critical infrastructure far from the active frontlines.