Ukrainian drone terror: Moscow’s iconic skyscraper in flames

In an unprecedented act of aggression that’s shocked Russia, an alleged Ukrainian drone assault on Moscow‘s distinguished IQ-quarter complex severely marred a 50-story building early Sunday, says the mayor and local media. Astonishing footage captured at the scene illustrates plumes of smoke billowing from the majestic structure, amplifying the city’s dread.

Adding to the city’s tense atmosphere, the Russian Defense Ministry stated that Russian air defenses neutralized one infiltrating Ukrainian drone west of Moscow, while advanced electromagnetic warfare systems jammed and subsequently crashed two more in the capital. Mayor Sergey Sobyanin, known for his prompt updates on his Telegram channel, reported the visible defacing of two office buildings, heightening the anxiety gripping the city. Additionally, a security officer incurred injuries amidst the assault on the nearby OKO tower, stated by TASS, stoking fears of the threat’s proximity.

Moscow IQ-quarter tower attack: Ukrainian drones target Russian metropolis. Photo courtesy of Igorkhait/Wikimedia Commons.

Authorities reacted swiftly, imposing an immediate restriction on all aircraft in Moscow’s airspace following the attack, an act underlining the gravity of the situation. Adding to the city’s transport disruptions, Vnukovo International Airport, one of Moscow’s major travel hubs, was temporarily shut for arrivals and departures, reopening later in the morning.

In a sobering reminder of the incident, Russian media reported Monday that two Ukrainian drones were intercepted and crashed, inflicting damage on at least two Moscow buildings. In a related incident, the Defense Ministry disclosed on Thursday that they had destroyed another Ukrainian drone in the Moscow region. Ukrainian authorities, known for their taciturnity regarding attacks within Russian territory, have yet to comment on these grave allegations.