MOSCOW — Ukraine launched an unprecedented wave of drones towards Moscow and other Russian regions on 20 September, coinciding with the final day of Russia’s parliamentary election.
Russian authorities said hundreds of drones were directed at the capital, while the defence ministry claimed more than one thousand were intercepted across Russian-controlled territory, Crimea and the Black Sea.
Officials reported deaths and injuries in the Moscow region, with damage recorded at an oil refinery and a residential building.
Associated Press described the operation as the largest drone assault yet against the Russian capital, highlighting Ukraine’s growing capacity to conduct long-range attacks.
The strikes occurred during a tightly controlled election from which prominent anti-war challengers had largely been excluded and in which the ruling United Russia party was expected to retain dominance.
Kyiv has repeatedly targeted Russian energy and logistics infrastructure in an effort to reduce resources available for the war, while Moscow continues large-scale attacks on Ukrainian cities.
The latest exchange demonstrates how drone warfare is moving the conflict deeper into both countries and increasing risks to civilians far from the ground front.
References
- Reuters — Drone attack hits Moscow region and oil refinery
- Associated Press — Ukraine fires more than 1,000 drones at Russia
- The Guardian — Moscow targeted during final day of voting
Featured photo: Yura Timoshenko/Unsplash.