Russia Claims to Down 221 Ukrainian Drones in Overnight Attacks – A Notable Escalation
Moscow, Russia – September 12, 2025 – Russia’s Ministry of Defense announced today that its air defense systems neutralized a massive wave of 221 Ukrainian drones targeting over ten regions across the country. This represents one of the largest reported instances of intercepted drones within Russian territory, signaling a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict.
The extensive Ukrainian drone assault followed a weekend that saw Russia launch its most comprehensive drone attack on Ukraine to date,suggesting a tit-for-tat response.
Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin confirmed that nine drones were destroyed or intercepted before reaching the capital. Authorities in the Leningrad region, surrounding St. Petersburg, also activated air defenses, temporarily closing Pulkovo Airport within a 100-kilometer radius as a precautionary measure.
Governor Alexander Drozdenko reported a fire broke out on a vessel at the Primorsk oil port, a crucial hub for Russian oil transshipment in the Gulf of Finland.While initially concerning,Drozdenko later assured the public that the ship was stable and posed no immediate threat of sinking or oil leakage. A separate fire at a local gas station was quickly extinguished, with no reported injuries.
The Russian Defense Ministry provided a regional breakdown of the intercepted drones, stating 28 were downed over the Leningrad region, a considerable 85 over the Bryansk region, and 42 over the Smolensk region.
Zaporizhzhia Nuclear plant Targeted
in a separate incident, Ukrainian drones reportedly attacked a training facility at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear Power Plant, currently under russian control. Plant officials stated there were no casualties and are assessing the extent of any damage. The attack raises renewed concerns about the safety and security of the facility, which has been a focal point of international anxiety throughout the war.
casualties Reported in Sumy
Meanwhile, in Ukraine,
