**Ukrainian Drones Target Moscow, Forcing Airport Closures**
In a bold move, Ukrainian forces launched a drone attack on the Russian capital of Moscow, causing widespread disruption and forcing two key airports to shut down. According to Russian authorities, air defense units successfully destroyed nine Ukrainian drones that were heading towards the city early on Sunday morning.
The drones were targeting Moscow’s Vnukovo and Domodedovo airports, which are two of the most important transportation hubs serving the capital. Emergency services were dispatched to the sites where drone debris fell, but miraculously, there were no immediate reports of damage or casualties. The attack also sparked a short-lived fire at the Azot chemical plant in the Tula region, injuring two people.
**Regional Impact**
The Ukrainian drone attack was not limited to Moscow alone. Seven drones were destroyed over the Kaluga region, which borders Moscow to the south. This indicates that Ukraine is continuing its efforts to target key strategic locations within Russian territory. The Kaluga region is an important industrial and economic hub, making it a significant target for Ukraine’s military.
**Recent Escalation**
This attack marks another escalation in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, which has been ongoing since February 2022. In recent weeks, both sides have increased their attacks on each other’s territories, while also returning to peace talks for the first time in months. The fact that Ukraine is willing to take bold actions like this drone attack suggests that they are determined to push back against Russian aggression.
**Air Safety Concerns**
As a precautionary measure, Russia’s civil aviation authority, Rosaviatsia, halted flights at Vnukovo and Domodedovo airports to ensure air safety. This decision was likely taken due to the uncertainty surrounding the extent of damage caused by the drones and potential risks to aircraft operations.
**Lack of Ukrainian Comment**
Notably, there was no immediate comment from Ukraine on this attack. While it’s not uncommon for Ukraine to remain tight-lipped about military operations, the lack of a statement from the Ukrainian government raises questions about their official stance on this particular incident.
As the conflict between Russia and Ukraine continues to unfold, these types of attacks will likely become more frequent. It remains to be seen how both sides will respond to each other’s actions in the coming days and weeks. One thing is certain, however: the people living in these regions will bear the brunt of this ongoing war.
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