Moscow Downs Dozens of Ukrainian Drones as Airports Halt Flights Amid Escalating Attacks

Russia’s capital, Moscow, came under a major drone attack early Monday, with air defense systems intercepting nearly 60 Ukrainian drones heading toward the city, according to Mayor Sergei Sobyanin. The incident briefly disrupted air travel at several major airports and highlights the growing intensity of Ukraine’s long-range strike campaign against Russian infrastructure.

Sobyanin announced on Telegram that Russian forces successfully shot down dozens of drones approaching Moscow during the early morning hours. While no immediate details on casualties or damage were provided, emergency crews were sent to locations where drone debris reportedly fell.

The attack forced temporary flight suspensions at Moscow’s key airports, including Sheremetyevo, Domodedovo, Vnukovo, and Zhukovsky. Russia’s aviation watchdog later confirmed that airport operations had resumed after authorities assessed the security situation.

The latest drone assault follows a recent strike on Moscow’s only oil refinery, which was targeted again last week. During that attack, Russian air defenses reportedly intercepted nearly 200 drones, marking one of the largest aerial offensives against the capital since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

Meanwhile, authorities in Sevastopol, located in Russian-controlled Crimea, introduced emergency measures in response to ongoing security concerns. Governor Mikhail Razvozhayev announced the cancellation of all outdoor public events and ordered street lights to remain switched off. Residents were also urged to reduce electricity consumption.

Crimea is additionally facing a fuel shortage linked to repeated Ukrainian drone strikes on supply routes and energy infrastructure. Local officials have suspended fuel sales to the public and most businesses, reserving available supplies for government agencies, essential services, and security operations.

The latest developments underscore the increasing reach of Ukraine’s drone operations and the mounting pressure on Russian energy facilities, transportation networks, and occupied territories as the conflict continues.