Ukraine launched a large drone attack overnight on Russia that led to the country closing several airports in and around Moscow.
More than 100 drones hit targets across 11 regions in Russia on Tuesday, according to multiple reports. Four airports in Moscow were forced to close for several hours because of the attacks to ensure the safety of flights, passengers, and airport personnel. No casualties were reported, and the airports resumed service later in the day.
Sergey Sobyanin, Moscow’s mayor, said in a Telegram post that approximately 19 Ukrainian drones that came “from different directions” were destroyed before reaching the city, the BBC reported. Sobyanin said one of the drones hit a building, causing debris to land on one of Moscow’s main highways. Other reports claimed windows of apartment buildings in Moscow had shattered due to the drone attacks.
It was the second consecutive night Ukraine had reportedly launched drones into Russia, according to reports. On Monday, Russia’s defense ministry announced it had shot down 26 Ukrainian drones that were deployed against Russia.
Russia launched a drone attack of its own overnight, hitting the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv, the nation’s second-largest city, with 20 drones, according to reports. Both countries had been trading drone attacks in recent weeks, with many of Russia’s attacks on Ukraine causing significant damage, including recent brutal attacks on Palm Sunday and Easter.
UKRAINE, RUSSIA ISSUE THREATS AS THREE-DAY CEASEFIRE PROPOSAL CRUMBLES
The drone attacks come as Russia launched its own drone attack over the weekend. Both countries are said to be working on a peace deal being brokered by the United States, but little progress has been made. Russian President Vladimir Putin had proposed a three-day ceasefire for the May 9 holiday, one of Russia’s most revered, celebrating the 80th anniversary of its victory against Germany in the Great Patriotic War, Russia’s term for World War II. An extravagant celebration is planned, and several world leaders are expected to attend.
Chinese President Xi Jinping is reportedly attending Russia’s ceremony. He is expected to arrive in Moscow on Wednesday and participate in the ceremonies. In addition to Xi, Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, and Vietnamese leader To Lam are also expected to attend, according to CNN.
