Ukraine launched one of its largest drone attacks on Moscow since the invasion began more than four years ago. The strike hit a Moscow oil refinery for the second time in a week, sending flames and plumes of smoke over the Kapotnya district. The assault disrupted commercial flights at Moscow airports and forced the closure of several major roads in and around the capital.
Russian officials reported a record air attack, with the defense ministry stating that 555 drones were shot down across the country. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin claimed about 180 drones heading for the capital were downed, though several managed to reach the refinery and a shopping center was also damaged.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy described the strikes as a fully justified response to Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities and communities, specifically citing a recent strike on a UNESCO-protected cathedral. Warning that Moscow will burn unless President Putin stops the war, Zelenskyy stated that Kyiv will respond to all Russian attacks.
These attacks are part of an escalating campaign to bring the conflict home to Russians and cut Moscow's war revenue by targeting oil facilities, which has led to some reported fuel shortages. The operation occurred as Zelenskyy met with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte in Brussels and held a coordination call with Donald Trump and Emmanuel Macron.