Ukraine Launches Major Drone Attack on Moscow as Peace Talks Loom

Ahead of potential peace negotiations, Ukraine conducted one of its most significant drone bombardments aimed at Russia, resulting in deadly impacts in Moscow and forcing airport closures. The attacks occur as both nations address a possible air truce to mitigate hostilities.

Ukraine executed a substantial drone offensive targeting various locations within Russia, notably the Moscow region, in the early hours of Tuesday. This marks one of the most significant air strikes against the Russian capital since the outbreak of the conflict. As the escalation continues, both sides have intensified their military activities in anticipation of discussions to potentially conclude three years of warfare.

According to the Russian Ministry of Defense, they intercepted 337 drones in total, with 91 targeting Moscow and surrounding areas. The strike resulted in at least two fatalities and left 14 individuals injured, as reported by Russian authorities. Damage was noted in populated areas, including a residential building whose roof was severely affected by the drone attack.

In response to the bombardment, Moscow’s mayor, Sergei Sobyanin, characterized the incident as the largest assault against the city throughout the war. The disruptions extended to the operational status of all four international airports serving a metropolitan population of 21 million, which were temporarily closed due to safety precautions.

In a strategic move, Ukraine proposed a cease-fire specifically concerning air assaults, suggesting that they would halt long-distance strikes into Russian territory if an equivalent response was conducted by Moscow. This proposition has garnered support from several European nations, including France, and is viewed as a potential step towards establishing trust before entering broader negotiations regarding the overall conflict, which has resulted in heavy casualties for both Ukrainian and Russian military personnel.