Ukraine has launched a significant assault on Russian territories, deploying a barrage of missiles and over 1,000 drones. Moscow described this as the “largest ever” attack of the war, coinciding with its parliamentary elections. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized the strike targeted financial resources fueling the conflict, advocating for an end to aggression and a shift towards peace.
Zelenskyy commented on the attack’s impact in a message on X, stating, “Our long-range responses were acutely felt in the Moscow region.” He noted that key enterprises and logistics facilities in Russia’s oil industry were hit, affecting billions in funding.
Flames and smoke were seen at Moscow’s oil refinery following the large-scale Ukrainian drone attack.
In a strong rebuke to Russian actions, Zelenskyy urged global allies, including the U.S., Europe, and the G7, to implement new sanctions. “Russia launched over 2,000 attack drones, 1,700 aerial bombs, and 19 missiles against Ukraine in a single week,” he explained. “Ukraine is committed to defending itself and finding ways to counter these attacks.” Zelenskyy stressed that partners should also seek measures to pressure Russia into peace.
During this period, Russia concluded its parliamentary elections. According to local Gov. Andrei Vorobyov, the attack resulted in two deaths and 20 injuries. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin stated on Telegram that 450 drones were intercepted, preventing a disruption of the elections.
The Russian Ministry of Defense reported downing 1,110 Ukrainian drones across the country, including Crimea and the Black Sea. Sobyanin noted damage to the Moscow Oil Refinery and a residential area. Zelenskyy called for Moscow to cease hostilities and focus on peace initiatives regarding energy and food security.
Meanwhile, Ukraine continued to repel Russian incursions. In the Kherson region, a monastery suffered a Russian drone strike, killing one clergy member and injuring four others. A subsequent attack in Kyiv resulted in the deaths of three children and their mother.
Ukraine’s drone assaults coincided with the final stage of Russia’s first wartime parliamentary elections, held in territories contested by Moscow. President Putin accused Ukraine of attempting to sabotage the elections, citing an unverified Ukrainian strike in Zaporizhzhia.
Russian President Putin stated the elections signify citizens’ support for troops in Ukraine, highlighting shared values and resilience against external threats.
This report incorporates contributions from the Associated Press and Reuters.