Drone Attacks Disrupt Flights at Major Russian Airports

Air traffic was disrupted at several major Russian airports on Tuesday following a wave of Ukrainian drone attacks. The incident comes just days before President Vladimir Putin’s expected address during the May 9 Victory Day parade in Moscow.

19 Drones Downed Around Moscow

Authorities confirmed 19 drones were intercepted around the capital. While most were neutralized without major impact, debris fell on a key avenue in southern Moscow.

“There were no casualties or major damage,” Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin assured in a Telegram post.

Russian media showed cracked windows and a scorched apartment building facade, but no serious injuries were reported in the capital.

Airports Forced to Restrict Flights

The Federal Air Transport Agency imposed flight restrictions at four Moscow airports. However, Sheremetyevo, the city’s main international hub, remained largely operational. Airports in Volgograd and Nizhny Novgorod also reported disruptions.

The restrictions come as Moscow prepares to host global dignitaries for its annual World War II commemorations.

More Drone Attacks Across Regions

Officials in Penza and Voronezh reported intercepting 10 and 18 drones, respectively. In the Kursk region, an attack damaged an electrical substation in Rylsk, injuring two teenagers.

“Power was cut off completely after two transformers were hit,” said acting governor Alexander Khinshtein on Telegram.

Ukraine Also Struck

Meanwhile, Ukraine reported fresh Russian drone strikes. A Russian attack killed one person in the Odesa region, according to local governor Oleg Kiper.

Rising Tensions Before Parade

As Russia gears up for the May 9 event—a symbol of national pride—the spike in drone activity underscores the growing reach of the Ukraine conflict deep into Russian territory.