Ukraine launched an attack on Moscow on Wednesday, using 11 drones which Russia claimed to have shot down in one of the most significant assaults on the capital. Meanwhile, Ukrainian defenses reported intercepting 50 Russian drones and missiles. These attacks coincide with a Ukrainian offensive in Russia's Kursk region, which Kyiv states is intended to conclude the Russian campaign initiated in February 2022 on 'fair' terms.
The Russian defense ministry announced that 'eleven drones were destroyed' over Moscow and its outskirts. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin described this as 'one of the largest ever attempts to attack Moscow with drones.' The ministry further stated that 45 Ukrainian drones were neutralized by Russian air defense systems. Sobyanin earlier confirmed no casualties or damage.
Such drone attacks on Moscow are uncommon; in May, Russia reported downing a drone near the capital, leading to temporary restrictions at two major airports. Ukrainian Air Force Commander Mykola Oleshchuk reported 72 air targets detected over Ukraine from Tuesday to Wednesday night, with 50 drones and a guided missile shot down. Kyiv was among the targeted areas.
Kyiv's military administration detailed an extended air raid lasting over nine hours, resulting in damage to a private house and disrupted power lines due to falling debris. Since August 6, Ukraine has conducted a significant incursion into Russia's Kursk region, claiming control over more than 80 settlements. Kyiv has also repeatedly targeted Russian oil and gas facilities, considering these actions as 'fair' retaliation for extensive attacks on its energy infrastructure.
A Ukrainian drone attack on an oil storage facility in Russia's southern Rostov region on Sunday caused a large fire, which continued to burn in Proletarsk on Wednesday, according to Russian media. Earlier this month, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky commended his forces for striking Russian oil facilities, suggesting these actions contribute to a 'just end' to the conflict.
