MOSCOW - The Russian capital Moscow was the target of yet another drone attack this morning, causing widespread traffic complications and raising security concerns in the city and its critical infrastructure, according to DPA. Ukrainian drones reportedly damaged several high-rise buildings and disrupted traffic at four major airports around the city.
Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said there was material damage to several high-rise buildings, saying on the social network Telegram that "the damage is not serious". However, further details have not yet been released, nor has information on any casualties or injuries. Residents of some neighborhoods reported explosions and subsequent fires in several places in the metropolis.
Domodedovo, Sheremetyevo, Vnukovo and Zhukovsky airports had to temporarily suspend or limit operations, with dozens of flights delayed or diverted. The Russian transport ministry said the situation was under control and technical teams were working to restore normal operations. Passengers were urged to monitor the airlines for updates.
The Russian Ministry of Defence has not yet issued an official statement on the incident. However, according to Russian state media, several drones were shot down over the Moscow region by air defence. Units of the Pantsir-S system and electronic warfare reportedly disabled some of the drones before they reached their targets.
This attack is the latest in a series of drone incidents attributed by Russia to Ukraine. Kiev has not officially confirmed responsibility, but has suggested in the past that attacks on Russian territory may be part of a defensive strategy aimed at disrupting Moscow's military infrastructure and logistics. Experts point out that the deployment of drones on such distant targets is indicative of Ukraine's increasing technical capacity as well as the vulnerability of the Russian interior.
It is not yet clear whether the attack will affect planned public events or security measures in the city. City authorities have not announced any new restrictions, but residents remain on edge.
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