Moscow Hit by 'Largest Ukrainian Attack' Since Full-Scale War Began

Top Summary

• What happened: Moscow was hit by its largest Ukrainian drone attack since the full-scale war began, with nearly 200 drones targeting the capital. This caused fires, disruptions, and wounded 17 people in the Moscow region. An oil depot in the Rostov region was also struck, killing one person.
• Why it matters: This marks a significant escalation in the conflict, demonstrating Ukraine's advanced long-range capabilities and its explicit aim to 'bring the war home' to Russia. It also serves as a direct response to recent Russian attacks on Kyiv.
• What changes: Moscow residents experienced widespread disruption, including temporary closures of four airports, over 500 cancelled or delayed flights, residential evacuations, and visible damage from industrial fires. The attacks highlight a new phase of the conflict impacting ordinary Russians.
• Who is affected: Residents and infrastructure in Moscow and the Rostov region are directly affected. Air travelers faced significant delays, while both Ukrainian and Russian leadership are under increased pressure to address the escalating long-range warfare.

Unprecedented Scale of Attack on Russian Capital

Moscow has come under the largest Ukrainian attack since the full-scale war began, with close to 200 drones reportedly hitting targets around the Russian capital. Columns of thick smoke were seen billowing high into the sky.

The Moscow region reported 17 people wounded, according to local governor Andrei Vorobyov. Russia's defence ministry claimed that almost 1,000 drones and four Ukrainian cruise missiles were intercepted and destroyed across the country in 24 hours.

In the southern Rostov region, an oil depot was struck, resulting in one fatality. This widespread assault signals a significant intensification of long-range strikes.

Zelensky Calls for Diplomacy Amid Retaliation

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed Kyiv's role, referring to the strikes as "long-range sanctions." He reiterated his call for an end to the conflict, stating, "It's time to end this war, and Russia must take the necessary steps in diplomacy."

Zelensky indicated the massive drone strike was a direct response to a Russian attack on Kyiv last week, which set a major religious landmark ablaze. He issued a stark warning:

"We don't want this war and have never wanted it. But if Ukraine burns, your Moscow will burn too."

This statement underscores Ukraine's determined posture to retaliate against aggressions.

Widespread Disruption and Damage in Moscow

Fires erupted as the Kapotnya refinery in south-east Moscow was hit for the third time in a month and the second time this week, turning the sky black with smoke. Videos circulated showing the lid of a large oil storage tank blown dozens of metres into the air.

A nearby shopping centre also caught fire, reportedly due to drone debris. Several residential high-rise blocks were evacuated as a precautionary measure, disrupting daily life for thousands of residents.

Air travel was severely impacted as Moscow's four airports were temporarily shut, leading to more than 500 flights being cancelled or delayed. Despite local authorities banning images of drone strike aftermath, numerous videos were shared on social media, showing drones in daylight and explosions over industrial areas.

Kyiv's Strategy to 'Bring the War Home'

Four and a half years into Moscow's full-scale invasion, Kyiv's long-range strikes on targets across Russia, including Moscow and St Petersburg, align with Zelensky's aim of "bringing the war home" to ordinary Russians.

Drone attacks on Moscow, located approximately 500km (310 miles) from the Ukrainian border, have become increasingly frequent. Ukraine has significantly developed its long-range capabilities since its first successful drone strikes reached the Russian capital in spring 2023.

While extensive air defences have been established around Moscow, the number of drones used by Ukraine has multiplied, with some successfully penetrating these protective measures.

Putin's Silence and Ukrainian Condemnation

Meanwhile, Russia launched its own significant attack overnight, with Kyiv reporting more than 200 drones and multiple ballistic missiles targeting Ukraine.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, currently hosting Southeast Asian leaders for a summit in Kazan, has yet to comment on the large-scale attack on his capital. His silence contrasts sharply with Ukrainian reactions.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha took to X, stating:

"One of the most popular questions asked by Muscovites this morning is 'What is going on?'... Your country started a war of aggression against ours. For years, it has been killing our people. Now that you know what's going on, ask Putin when he is planning to end it."

 

What to Watch Next

The latest attacks underscore a critical escalation in the conflict, indicating Ukraine's growing capacity and resolve to conduct long-range strikes. Future developments will likely focus on potential retaliatory actions from Russia, further enhancements in air defence capabilities, and any diplomatic responses to Zelensky's call for an end to the war.