Russia reports large-scale Ukrainian drone attack, including on Moscow
Russia claims a large-scale drone attack from Ukraine, resulting in significant engagement from air defenses, particularly around Moscow and Bryansk Oblast.
In a reported escalation of conflict, Russian officials announced that on February 15th, Ukraine launched a considerable drone attack, which notably included targets near Moscow. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin indicated that Russian air defenses successfully intercepted 13 drones on their approach to the capital. Emergency services were deployed to handle the aftermath of these engagements, with debris found in various locations around the city.
The provincial governor of Bryansk, Aleksandr Bogomaz, provided further details, emphasizing that the region had been subject to continuous drone assaults since early morning, claiming that a total of 120 drones were reported destroyed in the area. This heightened level of drone activity reflects ongoing tensions between the two countries and indicates a possible shift in tactical operations as the conflict evolves. Such attacks could have broad ramifications for Russian domestic security measures and public perception regarding the war.
Moreover, reports from the Kremlin-aligned news agency RIA Novosti noted that the drone incidents had led to temporary restrictions at Domodedovo airport, though these were swiftly lifted. This event underscores the precarious nature of security in Russia amidst ongoing military confrontations with Ukraine, raising questions about the effectiveness of air defense systems and the threat posed by Ukrainian UAV capabilities as the conflict drags on.