Ukraine has initiated a significant attack by deploying more than 1,000 explosive drones into Russia, marking Kyiv’s most substantial offensive against its neighbor since the conflict began. Approximately 200 Kamikaze drones were directed towards Moscow, with a primary focus on the city’s major oil refinery, resulting in significant fires. The assault on Moscow, lasting three hours from 4am to 7am local time, produced large black smoke plumes in the sky.
In addition to the drone attacks, Ukraine fired four cruise missiles into Russia, as President Volodymyr Zelensky declared a direct confrontation with the Kremlin, warning of reciprocal destruction: “If Ukraine suffers, Moscow will suffer too.” Zelensky emphasized that the strikes were in response to Russian assaults on Ukrainian territories, aiming to disrupt Russia’s war infrastructure.
Fires erupted at the Kapotnya refinery in southeast Moscow, which was hit for the third time in a month and the second time that week. Multiple oil storage tanks were reportedly destroyed, leading to a nearby shopping center catching fire due to drone debris. Several residential high-rise buildings had to be evacuated as a precaution.
The drone attacks have severely impaired Vladimir Putin’s military budget, causing shortages in Russia and affecting fuel supplies for frontline troops. Sources indicate that Ukraine’s strategy includes leveraging its current advantage to negotiate with NATO and the US, positioning itself to regain control of territories occupied by Russian forces.
Global leaders at the G7 summit pledged to intensify sanctions against Russia, particularly targeting its oil and gas sector. The signing of the Iran memorandum of understanding signifies a shift in focus towards Ukraine in the upcoming weeks. There are indications that US President Donald Trump may reconsider his stance on Russia, given Ukraine’s strategic advancements in the conflict.
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