Ukraine Drones Strike Moscow, Airports Briefly Shut Down

Retaliation intensifies as both sides seek potential peace talks.

Early sunday morning, Ukrainian drones targeted Moscow, leading to temporary closures of two major airports. This attack follows intensified exchanges between Russia and Ukraine, even as discussions about potential peace negotiations are rumored.

Moscow Under Attack

According to Russian officials, Ukrainian drones attacked targets within Moscow. Consequently, Moscow was forced to briefly close Vnukovo and Domodedovo airports, according to Rosaviatsia, the Russian Civil Aviation Office.

The mayor of Moscow, Serge Saubionin, reported that the Russian Air Force successfully intercepted and destroyed nine Ukrainian drones around 4:00 a.m. local time.

Strikes Beyond Moscow

The drone attacks extended beyond Moscow, with a fire erupting at the Azot chemical factory in the Tula region. This incident resulted in two injuries. Additionally, seven drones were reportedly destroyed over the Kaluga region, both areas bordering southern Moscow.

While Reuters has not independently verified these reports, Ukraine has not yet issued any immediate comments.

Kharkiv devastation

Prior to the drone attack on Moscow, Russian forces launched a devastating strike on Kharkiv in eastern Ukraine on Saturday evening. Missiles and guided bombs resulted in over 60 deaths, including babies.

Oleh Zini Hubof, reported that the city’s civilian infrastructure was struck by 40 drones, one missile, and four bombs, causing a fire and raising concerns about potential victims trapped under the debris.

The Ukrainian army stated that Russia launched 206 drones, two long-range missiles, and seven other missiles at Ukraine on Saturday night. Air defense units reportedly shot down 87 drones, while the fate of the other 80 remains unclear.

Escalation and Diplomacy

Amidst the escalating attacks, there are reports of renewed efforts to negotiate peace for the first time since Russia’s initial attack in February 2022. However, according to the Council on Foreign Relations, the conflict has resulted in an estimated 500,000 casualties CFR, highlighting the urgent need for a resolution.

The situation remains fluid, with both sides actively engaged in military actions and diplomatic maneuvering. The coming days will be critical in determining whether a path towards de-escalation and peace can be forged.