**Ukrainian Drones Strike Targets in Russia, Air Defenses Scrambled**
In a coordinated attack, Ukrainian drones reportedly targeted several regions in Russia early on July 18. The strike, which included multiple explosions and sightings of drones over the cities of Dzerzhinsk and Moscow, has left many wondering about the impact and results.
**Industrial Zone Hit in Nizhny Novgorod Region**
Dzerzhinsk, a city located in the Nizhny Novgorod region, was reportedly hit by 12 explosions, according to Russian Telegram channels. Locals claimed that air defenses engaged Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) over the industrial zone. The Federal Air Transport Agency (Rosaviatsiya) temporarily shut down the nearby Nizhny Novgorod airport.
**Multiple Explosions Reported in Moscow Region**
In the Moscow region, eyewitnesses reported hearing loud blasts and seeing bright flashes in the sky over Domodedovo, Istra, and Zvenigorod. While there is no confirmed information on casualties or damage, emergency services were deployed to the crash sites.
**Moscow Airports Put on High Alert**
The aerial threat prompted Moscow’s airports – Domodedovo, Zhukovsky, and Vnukovo – to activate their “Kover” (Carpet) emergency plan. Restrictions were briefly in place at Domodedovo and Zhukovsky between 23:13 and 23:24.
**Russia Claims Success Against Ukrainian Drones**
Russian military officials claim that their air defense systems intercepted and destroyed 73 Ukrainian drones overnight. According to the Russian Ministry of Defense, the majority of the drones were shot down over Bryansk, Oryol, Moscow, and Nizhny Novgorod regions.
As the situation continues to unfold, it remains unclear what impact these drone strikes will have on Russia’s military capabilities and overall strategy in Ukraine.
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