Russian authorities said on Monday that air defence systems intercepted 34 Ukrainian drones attempting to strike Moscow overnight. The attacks, which stretched over six hours starting late Sunday, briefly shut down two major airports in the capital region Domodedovo and Zhukovsky as air safety measures were enforced.
The Tula region, bordering Moscow, reportedly saw the heaviest activity, with 24 drones destroyed before reaching their targets, according to regional governor Dmitry Miliyaev.
Why It Matters:
The incident underscores Ukraine’s continued ability to launch deep strikes inside Russian territory, a tactic aimed at disrupting military infrastructure and logistics. The attacks also highlight the growing strain on Russia’s air defences as drone warfare becomes a key front in the conflict.
While Russia claimed there were no casualties or damage, Moscow’s repeated airport closures point to mounting pressure on the capital’s security. Kyiv, as in past instances, has not commented on the strikes but maintains its operations focus on military targets critical to Russia’s war effort.
Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin confirmed the interceptions via Telegram, saying the city’s air defences acted “effectively.”
Meanwhile, Russia’s aviation authority Rosaviatsiya said the two airports were shut for about 2.5 hours before flights resumed safely.
Analysts note that while Moscow has downplayed the scale of domestic drone attacks, frequent disruptions and airport closures reflect a heightened sense of vulnerability within Russia’s heartland.
What’s Next:
The latest incident may prompt tighter airspace restrictions around Moscow and expanded drone defence measures, including electronic jamming and interception systems.
Observers say Ukraine’s long-range drone capability continues to evolve, suggesting more symbolic strikes on Russian territory could follow as winter intensifies the conflict.
With information from Reuters.
