Massive Ukrainian drone attacks have caused widespread disruptions in Russian regions: airport closures and the destruction of dozens of drones
In recent days, Ukrainian drones have intensified their raids across Russian territory, leading to high tension and chaos in several key regions. The scale of this campaign became apparent when five major cities—Moscow, Samara, Kaluga, Volgograd, and Saratov—had to suspend or restrict air traffic due to loss of control over airports. Russian authorities and military sources report significant downings of unmanned aerial vehicles, but it is also notable that, although most were shot down by air defense systems, some debris hit residential areas and infrastructure. According to Russian media sources, including TASS and government agencies, the situation around Moscow airports has become particularly tense. The focus is on Sheremetyevo, Domodedovo, and Vnukovo airports, where temporary restrictions were imposed due to immediate threats. Official reports state that at least 19 drones were destroyed during these attacks, most of which were intercepted by air defense systems during their approach to their targets. Experts and eyewitnesses report that one drone somehow crashed and exploded near a multi-storey residential building on Kashirskoye Highway in Moscow, causing a significant public reaction. According to information from Telegram channels and BBC sources, debris from the "toy" drone hit a nine-story residential building located approximately 250 meters from the Kashirskaya metro station. The impact damaged several apartments, and a large-scale security check was launched to assess possible consequences of unapproved drone debris entering the residential zone. Russian officials and military experts interpret this trend as a sign of Ukraine’s increasing tactics—massive use of UAVs to target infrastructure and to psychologically undermine Russian regions bordering Ukraine. In response, Moscow and other cities have implemented measures to strengthen air defense systems and security protocols at air hubs. Sources report that attacks are coming from various directions, with the number of drones destroyed approaching twenty. However, the distribution of suspicious debris and fragments serves to increase psychological pressure on the population. While Russian authorities assure that the situation is under control and air defense systems are effective, analysts express concerns that these attacks may represent the first serious phase of a broader campaign aimed at countering Russian infrastructure, which could continue in the future. Amid these events, numerous videos and photos of drone debris, as well as eyewitness reports of loud booms and light effects, are appearing on social media and in the media. The country's operational command has called on residents to follow safety rules during air raid alerts and to report any suspicious objects. This large-scale wave of attacks confirms that Ukraine’s armed forces are actively using modern technology to combat Russian aggression, seeking to complicate the enemy’s operations and reduce its security. Furthermore, experts emphasize that the scale and constant nature of these attacks demonstrate Ukraine’s serious intentions to use drones not only for reconnaissance but also as an active element of strategic defense. This is a signal to Russia that responding to its aggression is becoming increasingly complex and risky. The situation remains tense, with Ukraine continuing to improve its drone technology and air defense systems to better counter Russian provocations and prepare for potential counteroffensives.