Russia's defense ministry reported intercepting multiple Ukrainian drones targeting Moscow on Tuesday, leading to a temporary closure of Vnukovo airport. While four drones were reportedly shot down near the city's outskirts, a fifth was electronically disabled. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin confirmed no casualties or damage. Ukrainian officials have not publicly acknowledged the incident, which is consistent with their usual policy regarding activities within Russian territory.
This drone incursion follows a series of similar incidents in the Russian capital during the ongoing 500-day conflict and comes shortly after the Wagner Group's aborted march toward Moscow led by Yevgeny Prigozhin.
As the war continues, Ukrainian forces have made gains, reclaiming territory previously seized by Russia and launching counteroffensives in the south and east. Conversely, Russia persists in its missile and drone attacks targeting Ukrainian infrastructure and military positions.
In northeastern Ukraine, a recent Russian drone strike on Sumy resulted in three fatalities and 21 injuries, according to city mayor Oleksandr Lysenko. The attack also damaged residential buildings and the regional headquarters of Ukraine's Security Service. President Zelenskyy has reiterated his call for increased Western support, including advanced air defense systems and NATO membership.
