In a dramatic escalation of the ongoing conflict, Russian authorities reported a series of drone attacks near Moscow, allegedly orchestrated by Ukraine. According to Russian officials, air defenses brought down at least 24 drones over the Moscow region and neighboring provinces, creating a wave of anxiety in the Russian capital.

Tula Apartment Block Hit, Airports Briefly Shut

The assault reportedly caused damage to buildings, including a 12-story apartment block in Tula, and led to brief shutdowns of Moscow’s Vnukovo and Domodedovo airports. One resident was injured in Tula, and others were left in fear as the drone crashed into their building.

Ukrainian Shahed Drones Suspected

Speculation is rife on Russian Telegram channels that Ukrainian forces deployed a new type of drone, drawing parallels to Iranian-made weapons used by Moscow in its attacks on Ukraine. The alleged Ukrainian drone strikes in Russia come a day after Kyiv suffered a massive drone assault, which the Ukrainian air force claims involved over 60 Iranian-made Shahed drones.

Air Raid Sirens in Crimea, Power Plant Struck in Donetsk

Further adding to the regional unrest, air raid sirens were heard in Russian-annexed Crimea, and a thermal power plant in Donetsk was targeted, leading to widespread power outages in parts of the Russian-occupied eastern Ukraine.

Battle for Avdiivka Continues

On the frontlines, the Ukrainian stronghold of Avdiivka remains a focal point, with the Ukrainian General Staff reporting successful defense against Russian assaults. Unconfirmed reports from Russian bloggers suggest movements in the industrial zone of Avdiivka, though full control remains uncertain.

Russia’s claim of Ukrainian drone attacks near Moscow marks a significant turn in the ongoing conflict, suggesting a shift in tactics and raising questions about the future trajectory of this war in Eastern Europe.

  Donetsk, Moscow, Russia, Ukraine