Ukraine Launches Drone Attack on Moscow: Fire and Flight Diversions Disrupt City Life

A significant drone attack targeted Moscow overnight on July 20, causing a fire in Zelenograd, a suburb about 37 kilometers from the city center. Reports suggest that Ukraine launched at least 21 drones toward Moscow starting at 6 p.m. on July 19.

Moscow’s Mayor Sergey Sobyanin mentioned emergency teams are responding to the incident but did not provide details about injuries or damage. Videos on social media appear to show vehicles on fire near a residential area, and drone debris may have struck a nearby building.

As a precaution, all four major airports in Moscow temporarily halted incoming flights, diverting them to St. Petersburg’s Pulkovo airport. By 4 a.m., restrictions were lifted.

The Russian Defense Ministry claimed it shot down 93 Ukrainian drones across the country, including 19 in the Moscow region. However, details surrounding the attacks remain unverified.

This incident is part of a pattern; it marks the fourth consecutive night that Moscow has been bombarded. Days before, Ukraine reportedly launched 13 drones at the city. Historically, while Ukraine is often tight-lipped about attacks on Russian territory, it has intensified its operations amid ongoing Russian assaults in Ukraine.

Interestingly, this escalation comes on the heels of U.S. President Donald Trump suggesting that Russia should reach a peace deal within 50 days or face strict tariffs. Reports claims he inquired whether Ukraine could target Moscow, to which Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky responded affirmatively, saying such an attack could be feasible with proper U.S. support.

Public reaction to this drone strike has been mixed. On social media, some express solidarity with Ukraine, while others are concerned about the escalating conflict, fearing wider repercussions.

As of now, the situation remains fluid. This ongoing conflict highlights the increasing complexity and volatility in the region, reminiscent of Cold War tensions, as the global community watches closely.

For more about the unfolding situation, you can refer to this report from the Financial Times.

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