Russia Downs 220 Ukrainian Drones in Major Air Defence Operation, Moscow Targeted

Russia’s Defence Ministry reported that its air defence systems intercepted and destroyed 220 Ukrainian drones during a nine-hour period on Thursday, marking one of the largest drone attacks in recent months. According to the ministry, 24 of the unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) were headed toward Moscow, highlighting ongoing security concerns around the Russian capital.

In the latest update, officials stated that 53 drones were shot down within a three-hour window ending at 11 p.m. (2000 GMT). The interceptions were carried out across several regions in central Russia, where air defence units have remained on heightened alert amid intensified cross-border drone operations linked to the Ukraine conflict.

The Defence Ministry confirmed that 12 of the drones specifically targeted Moscow. Meanwhile, Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin provided additional details via Telegram, stating that 27 drones were neutralized while approaching the city, with interception efforts beginning at approximately 5 p.m. local time. The discrepancy in figures reflects updates issued at different times throughout the evening as the situation developed.

Russian authorities have increasingly reported large-scale Ukrainian drone attacks aimed at strategic infrastructure and major urban centers. Moscow, in particular, has strengthened its air defence network in response to repeated UAV threats. Thursday’s coordinated interception demonstrates the scale of aerial activity and the continued reliance on advanced air defence systems to protect key regions.

The incident underscores the escalating use of drone warfare in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, with both sides deploying unmanned systems to target military and logistical assets. As tensions persist, airspace security over central Russia and Moscow remains a critical priority for defence officials monitoring ongoing Ukrainian drone activity.