**Fire and Explosions Reported Near Moscow as Ukraine Launches Drone Attack on Russia’s Capital**
A fire broke out in the city of Zelenograd, a satellite city northwest of central Moscow, overnight on July 20. The incident is believed to be related to a drone attack launched by Ukraine targeting the Russian capital.
According to local Telegram channels, Moscow Mayor Sergey Sobyanin reported that at least 21 Ukrainian drones were downed over Moscow since 6 p.m. local time on July 19. However, the extent of the damage caused by the fire and explosions is still unknown.
Videos posted on social media show vehicles burning near a residential building in Zelenograd. Drone debris also appears to have struck the top floors of another residential building in the city. While no information was available on any casualties, temporary restrictions were imposed at all four Moscow airports amid the ongoing attacks.
This incident marks the fourth straight night that Moscow has come under fire from Ukrainian drones. The region faced a similar attack the night prior as Ukraine’s military reportedly launched 13 drones towards Moscow.
The reported strikes on Moscow come after U.S. President Donald Trump offered the Kremlin 50 days to make a peace deal or face “severe tariffs” from Washington. Before the announcement, Trump reportedly asked President Volodymyr Zelensky during a June phone call if Ukraine was capable of attacking Moscow. Zelensky allegedly replied that such an attack would be possible if the U.S. supplied the necessary weapons.
**Analysis**
The recent drone attacks on Moscow are a sign of escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine. After months of increased attacks on Ukrainian cities by Russian drones, Ukraine’s military appears to have intensified its own efforts in targeting Russia’s capital.
While it is unclear what prompted this escalation, one possible explanation is the U.S.’s growing involvement in the conflict. Trump’s offer to give the Kremlin 50 days to make a peace deal or face severe tariffs from Washington may have put pressure on both sides to take more drastic measures.
It remains to be seen how Russia will respond to these drone attacks, but it is clear that tensions between Ukraine and Russia are reaching new heights. As this story develops, we will provide updates as more information becomes available.
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