Flight operations at all airports serving the Russian capital, Moscow, were temporarily suspended early Thursday morning following a reported Ukrainian drone attack. Authorities confirmed the disruption, citing concerns over airspace security.
The Russian Defense Ministry stated that its forces intercepted a significant number of Ukrainian drones overnight. While the exact figure varied across reports, officials characterized it as one of the largest single-night drone incursions since the conflict began nearly four years ago.
Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin reported that air defenses successfully downed multiple drones en route to the city. He indicated that emergency services were dispatched to assess any potential debris on the ground. Initial reports suggested no immediate casualties or significant damage.
Russia’s civil aviation authority, Rosaviatsiya, confirmed the temporary suspension of operations at airports in the Moscow region. Pulkovo Airport in St. Petersburg, Russia’s second-largest city, reported handling diverted flights from the capital.
The incident follows reports of a separate Ukrainian drone attack targeting a Russian oil tanker in the Black Sea. According to Ukrainian military intelligence sources, naval drones struck the vessel, causing significant damage. Moscow has yet to officially comment on the alleged attack on the tanker.
These events occur amidst ongoing conflict in Ukraine, where Russia currently controls a considerable portion of Ukrainian territory. Both sides have increasingly utilized drone technology for attacks, with Ukraine focusing on Russian oil infrastructure and Russia targeting Ukrainian energy facilities.
DZWatch continues to monitor the situation closely.
