Russia Downs Over 50 Drones Near Moscow Ahead of Victory Day Ceasefire

Russian air defence systems intercepted more than 50 drones targeting Moscow within roughly 15 hours, according to Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin. The reported wave of drone attacks came just before Russia’s planned three-day ceasefire linked to Victory Day commemorations marking the Soviet Union’s triumph over Nazi Germany in World War II.

Sobyanin shared frequent updates on Telegram throughout Thursday, stating that Russian air defence forces successfully destroyed multiple Ukrainian drones approaching the Russian capital. The interceptions reportedly began around 11 a.m. local time on Thursday and continued until approximately 2 a.m. on Friday. Emergency response teams were dispatched to inspect drone debris and assess any potential damage on the ground.

Separately, Russia’s Defence Ministry announced that a total of 95 Ukrainian drones had been intercepted across several regions in central and southern Russia during a four-hour period ending at midnight. The ministry described the attacks as part of continued cross-border drone operations amid ongoing tensions between Russia and Ukraine.

The latest drone strikes highlight the growing intensity of aerial warfare in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, with Moscow increasingly targeted by long-range unmanned aerial vehicles. Russian authorities have frequently reported drone interceptions in recent months, especially ahead of politically significant events and public celebrations.

Russia also confirmed that a temporary ceasefire would begin at midnight between May 7 and May 8 and continue through May 10. The truce is intended to coincide with annual Victory Day events, one of Russia’s most important national holidays.

Despite the planned ceasefire, the recent drone activity underscores the fragile security situation surrounding Moscow and other Russian regions as the conflict with Ukraine continues.