Tensions between Russia and Ukraine escalated again on Tuesday after Russian authorities reported a fresh wave of Ukrainian drone attacks targeting Moscow, western Russian regions, and annexed Crimea. According to officials, Russian air defence systems intercepted dozens of unmanned aerial vehicles, while one civilian sustained injuries near the Russian capital.
Russia’s Defence Ministry said air defence units destroyed 27 Ukrainian drones within a three-hour window starting at 8 p.m. local time, including three intercepted over the Moscow region. The information was shared via the ministry’s official Telegram channel.
Moscow region governor Andrei Vorobyov later stated that 21 drones were shot down over the region throughout the day, confirming that one civilian was injured as a result of the attacks. Authorities did not provide further details on the person’s condition.
Rising Accusations Amid Fragile Diplomacy
The reported drone incursions come just a day after Moscow accused Kyiv—without presenting evidence—of attempting to strike President Vladimir Putin’s residence. Ukrainian officials swiftly rejected the claim, calling it unfounded and accusing Russia of using such allegations to undermine potential peace negotiations in the nearly four-year-long war.
As with previous incidents, Russian authorities did not disclose the full extent of any damage. Moscow typically limits public reporting unless civilian casualties or critical infrastructure are affected.
Power Outage Raises Questions
In a separate development, Russian state media reported a power outage in a town outside Moscow, citing a technical malfunction at a regional power facility. According to the SHOT Telegram news channel, which maintains links to Russian security sources, approximately 100,000 residents were affected.
Officials said there was no immediate evidence linking the power disruption to the drone attacks, and investigations are ongoing.
Drone Warfare Expands
Ukraine has increasingly relied on long-range drones to strike military and logistical targets deep inside Russian territory, while Moscow continues to emphasize the effectiveness of its air defence systems. The growing reach of drone warfare highlights the evolving nature of the conflict, even as diplomatic efforts remain fragile and sporadic.