A large-scale air attack by Ukrainian drones is ongoing in Russia, which took place throughout the entire day of May 21, according to official sources and Russian media
According to the Russian Ministry of Defense, this night and the beginning of the day were filled with active combat operations by Ukrainian drones, which deliberately attempted to strike various targets across Russian territory, causing panic and technical disruptions. Reports from Russian military ministries and news agencies indicate that Russian air defense forces effectively repelled these attacks, destroying over 250 Ukrainian drones overnight and during the day. Official data shows that as of the morning, the Russian Ministry of Defense reported the destruction of 150 drones, and by the end of the working day, this number had increased by an additional 100, demonstrating the scale and high intensity of the attack. The most severe damage and destruction occurred in the Oryol Region, where an attack disrupted the operation of a semiconductor manufacturing defense plant. Preliminary reports suggest that several Ukrainian drones were shot down over this area, but the fighting led to a fire at the facility, causing additional concern among local residents and civil protection services. In the Moscow region, Ukrainian drones also left a trace of destruction — about 27 aircraft were downed there. As a result of the attack, several airports, including Domodedovo and Zhukovsky, temporarily suspended operations to ensure the safety of passengers and personnel. Residents of the region faced serious disruptions in transportation services and other infrastructure facilities. Technical issues also occurred as a result of the attack. In the Lipetsk region, where Ukrainian drones launched another mass attack, problems with mobile communication arose in several settlements due to the disconnection of mobile internet. Additionally, in Moscow, the Moscow region, Voronezh, and Tula regions, periodic failures in cellular communication and other communication services were recorded, which further complicated the situation. Overall, this crisis once again confirms the high level of tension and uncertainty in the region, as well as the growing threat posed by Ukrainian unmanned systems that continue to attack strategic and civilian targets within Russian territory. Russian authorities reiterate the necessity of strengthening air defenses and mobilizing resources to counter such large-scale attacks.