President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine has issued a stern warning as a drone attack struck the Russian capital, Moscow. In response to the incident, Zelensky stated that attacks on Russian territory were a natural consequence of the ongoing war between the two countries.
On Sunday, Russia’s defense ministry confirmed that three Ukrainian drones were shot down, with two of them colliding with office buildings. This occurrence led to a temporary suspension of operations at Vnukovo Airport, situated southwest of Moscow’s city center.
Speaking from the western Ukrainian city of Ivano-Frankivsk in a video address on Sunday, Zelensky highlighted that Ukraine is growing stronger. He mentioned that the so-called “Special Military Operation” had continued for 522 days, far exceeding the timeline anticipated by the Russian leadership.
Zelensky’s characterization of the attack on Moscow represents a shift in Kyiv’s approach, as it acknowledges the country’s involvement in attacks inside Russia. The Ukrainian president’s confidence in addressing the Russian population is an attempt to challenge the majority’s perception of Moscow’s invasion as just and righteous.
Officials reported no injuries from the drone attack, but minor damages to two office buildings were noted. Flights at Vnukovo Airport were temporarily suspended, and incoming planes were diverted to other airports. The defence ministry described the incident as a “thwarted attempted terrorist attack.”
Russia has accused Ukraine of launching several drone strikes on its territory in recent months, including attacks on the capital. These actions have intensified tensions between the two countries, further complicating the prospects for peace talks.
Meanwhile, other incidents related to the conflict continue to emerge. Ukrainian officials reported a Russian missile attack on the city of Sumy, resulting in one fatality and five injuries. Additionally, two people were killed in the southern city of Zaporizhzhia on Saturday. The situation remains highly volatile, with both sides engaged in hostilities.
