A large-scale Ukrainian drone offensive over the weekend led to the temporary closure of Moscow’s major airports and the cancellation or redirection of over 140 flights. Russia’s aviation watchdog confirmed that all four major airports serving the capital were impacted.
The Russian defence ministry reported that over 230 Ukrainian drones were shot down since Saturday morning, including 27 over Moscow itself. Despite the disruptions, flight operations have now resumed.
Drone Strikes Disrupt Russian Regions as Ukraine Endures Deadly Overnight Air Attacks
In addition to Moscow, other regions in Russia, such as Kaluga, Bryansk, and Rostov, as well as areas near the Black Sea, were affected by drone interceptions. Kaluga International Airport was briefly closed after the Russian military downed 45 drones in the area.
Russia’s Association of Tour Operators stated that Moscow’s airports were closed 10 times within 24 hours due to the attacks. No fatalities were reported from these incidents on Russian soil.
While Russia faced airspace disruptions, Ukraine suffered lethal Russian air strikes. At least three people were killed in overnight attacks, including two in Donetsk and a 78-year-old woman in Sumy.
Ukraine’s air force reported intercepting 18 out of 57 Russian drones, while another seven were lost due to radar jamming. Additional strikes were reported in Kharkiv, Dnipropetrovsk, and Zaporizhzhia, highlighting continued violence along Ukraine’s frontlines.
Renewed Push for Peace Talks as Global Powers Weigh In on Ukraine Conflict
Amid escalating hostilities, both sides have expressed renewed interest in diplomacy. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that President Putin remains committed to a peaceful resolution, although achieving Russia’s strategic goals remains the top priority.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has proposed reopening negotiations, offering to meet with Putin directly. Despite earlier failed talks, there have been some positive outcomes, such as prisoner exchanges.
International involvement has intensified with U.S. President Donald Trump pledging to send advanced weaponry to Ukraine via NATO allies. Trump also warned Russia of severe economic tariffs if no peace deal is achieved within 50 days.
While expressing disappointment in Putin, Trump insisted he would keep pressing for a peaceful outcome. The Kremlin responded by acknowledging Trump’s assertive style but welcomed his stated commitment to peace. As the war enters its fourth year, the possibility of a negotiated settlement remains uncertain but actively pursued.
