Russia Says It Downed More Than 80 Drones as Attacks Kill Six in Ukraine

Russia said its air defense systems intercepted and destroyed more than 80 drones overnight, while Russian attacks across Ukraine killed at least six people and injured several others, as fighting between the two countries continued with little sign of easing.

Russia’s Ministry of Defense reported that air defense units shot down or intercepted 84 Ukrainian drones targeting multiple regions, including areas near Moscow and several western and southern territories. Officials said the attacks caused limited damage, though temporary restrictions were imposed at some airports as a precaution. The ministry described the operation as one of the larger drone assaults reported in recent weeks.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian authorities said Russian missile and drone strikes hit several locations across the country, resulting in civilian casualties and damage to homes, infrastructure, and public facilities. Regional officials reported that at least six people were killed and numerous others wounded in attacks affecting multiple communities.

In eastern and southern Ukraine, emergency services worked through the night to extinguish fires and search damaged buildings for survivors. Local authorities said residential neighborhoods were among the sites impacted by the strikes.

The latest exchange of attacks underscores the growing role of long-range drones in the conflict, with both sides increasingly targeting areas far from the front lines. Drone warfare has become a central feature of the war, allowing each side to strike military, logistical, and infrastructure targets deep inside opposing territory.

Russian officials accused Ukraine of attempting to disrupt civilian life and transportation networks through the drone attacks, while Ukrainian authorities said Russia’s continued strikes on populated areas demonstrate the ongoing threat facing civilians.

The conflict, now in its fifth year, has seen repeated waves of missile, drone, and artillery attacks despite periodic diplomatic efforts to reduce hostilities. International observers have warned that continued escalation could further complicate prospects for future peace negotiations.

As both countries continue to intensify aerial operations, residents in affected regions remain on high alert, with air raid warnings and emergency responses becoming a regular feature of daily life.