MOSCOW: Russia’s defence ministry reported on Thursday that it had successfully downed seven drones over the Kaluga region, which is located less than 200 kilometers (124 miles) southwest of Moscow. The incident occurred amidst a growing number of drone attacks targeting the Russian capital.
According to the defence ministry, the drones were part of a thwarted “terrorist attack with drones” in the Kaluga region. Vyacheslav Shapsha, the regional governor, confirmed the incident through the Telegram messaging app, stating that all seven drones had been shot down and no casualties were reported.
Increase in Drone Attacks on Russian Cities
The surge in drone attacks on Russian cities and towns comes as Moscow’s offensive in Ukraine enters its second year. On Tuesday, Russia claimed to have partially repelled a drone attack in Moscow, but one of the drones managed to strike a building in the city. A similar attack occurred over the weekend, raising concerns over the security of the capital.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned on Sunday that Russia was facing the prospect of “war,” with the country’s “symbolic centers and military bases” becoming potential targets. The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine has escalated tensions and triggered a rise in security concerns across the region.
As the situation remains tense, both within Russia and in the broader context of the Russo-Ukrainian War, authorities are on high alert for potential threats.