Ukrainian Drone Attack Disrupts Flights Near Moscow Ahead of Victory Day Parade
In a provocative display of military capability, Ukrainian drone strikes targeted several regions in Russia, leading to flight restrictions at airports near Moscow just three days before the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe. Russian state news reports indicated that airports in five cities were affected, though the exact duration of the closures remains unclear. Ukrainian officials have not commented on the attacks.
The drone barrage coincides with ongoing hostilities, with Russia launching retaliatory strikes on Ukrainian cities, including Sumy, Kharkiv, and Odesa, resulting in four fatalities and at least 11 injuries. Although the strikes on Moscow might be seen as a direct threat to the upcoming Victory Day parade, Kyiv has been conducting long-range strikes as part of its ongoing response to Russian bombardments.
President Vladimir Putin has invited around 20 foreign leaders, including China’s Xi Jinping, to the parade, and has proposed a three-day truce to facilitate the event. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has dismissed this offer, insisting that any cease-fire must last a minimum of 30 days for meaningful negotiations, asserting that the limited truce is simply intended to ensure the safety of parade attendees.
Moscow’s mayor, Sergei Sobyanin, reported on Telegram that 19 drones were intercepted over or near the city on Tuesday, with debris landing on a highway and near residential buildings, but without causing injuries or significant damage. As tensions continue to escalate, the situation remains precarious, with both sides intensifying their military actions amid ongoing diplomatic stalemates.
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