Ukraine has executed one of its most significant drone attacks on Moscow, marking a notable escalation in the conflict. Russia’s defence ministry reported intercepting 11 kamikaze drones before they reached the capital. Several drones were shot down over Podolsk, a city near Domodedovo International Airport, with residents hearing buzzing and loud explosions.
In total, Russia claimed to have destroyed 45 drones over its territory, including 23 in the Bryansk region, six in Belgorod, two above Kursk, and three over Kaluga. The city’s mayor, Sergei Sobyanin, described the attack as one of the largest ever attempted on Moscow using drones.
Ukraine’s Expanding Drone Program
In response to the ongoing conflict and restrictions on western weapons, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called for allies to lift limitations on using advanced weapons like the UK’s Storm Shadow missiles. These missiles are currently restricted to areas up to Russia’s borders, due to concerns about escalating nuclear tensions. Zelenskyy argues that these restrictions are outdated as the conflict deepens into Russian territory.
Ukraine has developed a more ambitious drone program, targeting critical infrastructure sites linked to military logistics. Recent attacks include a major oil depot in Proletarsk, which continues to burn days after being struck by drones.
Russian and Ukrainian Frontline Developments
In the Kursk region, Ukrainian forces have been advancing with probing raids on towns and villages. They have reportedly seized the town of Sudzha and are nearing Korenovo. The Ukrainian strategy includes using US-supplied Himars rockets to attack key infrastructure like pontoon crossings. Recent video evidence showed these rockets being used effectively in the Kursk region.
Russian forces have scrambled to counter Ukrainian advances, reinforcing positions and transferring units from other areas. Despite this, Ukrainian troops have reportedly repelled over 40 Russian attacks in Pokrovsk, with casualties reported on both sides.
Impact on Civilian Populations
The ongoing conflict has severely affected civilian populations. In Myrnohrad, near the frontlines in Donetsk, authorities urge civilians to evacuate due to intense shelling and deteriorating living conditions. Approximately 16,000 residents remain, with some hiding their children to avoid compulsory evacuation.
In the eastern Donbas region, Russian forces continue their aggressive tactics, including air strikes and infantry assaults. Ukrainian forces report heavy casualties on both sides, with ongoing battles causing significant suffering for civilians caught in the crossfire.
International Reactions and Strategic Developments
The international community remains concerned about the escalating conflict. US and European allies are carefully monitoring the situation, balancing support for Ukraine with the need to avoid further escalation. The conflict’s ongoing developments and the use of advanced weaponry continue to shape the strategic landscape in the region.