Ukrainian Drone Attack Disrupts Russian Air Travel, Damages Volgograd Infrastructure
VOLGOGRAD, RUSSIA – A sustained Ukrainian drone attack targeted Russia overnight, causing damage in Volgograd and prompting the suspension of flights at 13 airports across the contry. The assault, lasting approximately five hours, focused on the Volgograd region, with explosions reported in the city’s west and north.
Falling drone debris ignited a fire at an industrial zone in Volgograd’s Krasnoarmeysky district, and damage to windows in residential buildings and vehicles was reported across several districts.Authorities are preparing a temporary shelter for residents of affected buildings while sappers inspect the areas for unexploded ordnance. The attack highlights an escalating pattern of drone strikes targeting Russian territory, disrupting civilian infrastructure and raising concerns about the vulnerability of key facilities.
According to RIA Novosti,Russian air defenses intercepted and destroyed 75 Ukrainian drones overnight,including 45 in the Volgograd region. The Moscow Times reported that eyewitnesses observed drones flying at low altitudes over the Volga River, potentially targeting the Lukoil-Volgogradneftiepererabotka oil refinery in the Krasnoarmeysky district. The refinery is located near the site of the industrial fire. Flights were suspended at 13 Russian airports as a precautionary measure following the drone attacks.