Ukraine Launches Largest Drone Attack on Moscow

Ukraine has initiated its most significant offensive against Russia since the onset of their prolonged conflict, targeting Moscow with nearly 200 drones.

On Thursday, strikes focused on a major oil refinery in the Kapotnya district of Moscow. Videos surfaced online showing flames and smoke rising over nearby structures, capturing the moment a section of a fuel tank was launched into the air.

Local residents shared their reactions to the attack, showcasing the psychological impact as they observed smoke rising over their city. One woman, visibly emotional, noted, “The war is here. My windows are shaking. The air is dark and smells of smoke,” in a video clip.

In the aftermath, some citizens reported experiencing “black rain” from oil residue, posting footage of a murky sky. A local news outlet mentioned that rain left oil spots on vehicles and window sills.

The Kapotnya facility is crucial for Moscow, providing approximately 40% of the capital’s petrol and about half of its diesel supply.

Moscow’s Mayor, Sergei Sobyanin, asserted that Russian air defenses successfully intercepted over forty drones aimed at the capital. He announced on Telegram, “Air defense forces continue to repel a massive attack,” as reported by multiple sources.

Additionally, a drone hit an apartment complex in Zhukovsky, just outside of Moscow, according to state media, with some damage reported but no casualties. Falling debris and secondary explosions sparked fires affecting nearby locations, including a fitness center and a shopping complex.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has not yet addressed the incident publicly, as he participates in a diplomatic summit with Asian leaders in Kazan.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha highlighted prevalent sentiment among Muscovites, who were asking, “What is going on?” He replied, “Your country started a war of aggression against ours. For years, it has been killing our people. Now that you know what’s going on, ask Putin when he is planning to end it.”

He later commented on the oil refinery damage, stating, “In Moscow, everything is going according to plan. Not Russia’s plan, though.”

This attack serves as a stark reminder for people in Russia that they may not be as shielded from the war as they once believed. Just weeks before Thursday’s strike, Ukrainian forces had also targeted St. Petersburg, Putin’s hometown, coinciding with Russia’s annual economic forum.