Russia Launches Massive Drone Attack on Ukraine as Ceasefire Expires
Following the expiration of a US-brokered three-day ceasefire, Russian forces launched a massive aerial assault on Ukraine involving 216 drones. Ukrainian air defenses intercepted 192 units, but remaining strikes damaged civilian infrastructure, including a kindergarten in Kyiv, causing at least one death and multiple injuries. Kyiv had proposed extending the truce, but Moscow rejected the offer, signaling a violent resumption of hostilities. The attack underscores the fragility of diplomatic efforts and the continued intensity of the conflict, prompting calls for increased international support and sanctions against Russia.
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Ukraine Fires Over 400 Drones at Moscow Region in Counterattack
Ukraine launched a massive drone attack on the Moscow region overnight, with Russian authorities reporting over 400 drones targeting the area. The governor of the Moscow region, Andrey Vorobyov, reported ten injured across various cities, including three Chinese citizens in Domodedovo. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed attacks on an oil depot and logistics facilities, calling it a 'just response' to Russian attacks. The Russian Defense Ministry claimed 381 drones were intercepted over Russian territory and Crimea. Separately, Ukrainian drone forces reported hitting seven Russian ships in the Black Sea and Sea of Azov, including three tankers and four cargo ships. The death toll from a previous Russian attack on a cargo ship off Odessa doubled to ten, according to Ukrainian port authorities. The attacks mark a significant escalation in Ukraine's use of drones for long-range strikes against Russian infrastructure.
taz.de - taz.deUkraine Fires 400 Drones Toward Moscow as Zelenskyy Grapples with Protests
Ukraine launched a massive drone attack, firing approximately 400 drones toward Moscow, in what is described as the deadliest Ukrainian attack inside Russian territory in two years. The assault follows a large-scale Russian missile and drone attack on Kyiv. At least eight people were killed, including warehouse workers, and ten were wounded in the Moscow region. The strikes reportedly targeted Russia's 'Amazon' military unit. The attack comes as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy faces domestic protests, adding a layer of political pressure to the ongoing conflict. The escalation marks a significant shift in Ukraine's air war strategy, striking deep into Russian territory.
Top stories - Google NewsDrone strikes kill 3, wound 5 in Moscow region: governor
Drone attacks killed three people and wounded five in the Moscow region, according to Governor Andrey Vorobyov. Air defenses shot down 81 drones over the region. The strikes occurred in the settlement of Pionersky in Istra, where three were killed and three wounded, with two more wounded elsewhere. Separately, drones attacked southern Stavropol, causing a fire at an industrial zone in Vyazniki, Shpakovsky district, with no casualties reported. The attacks are part of Ukraine's intensified strikes on Russian territory, particularly energy targets, which Kyiv frames as retaliation for Russia's ongoing barrages. Meanwhile, Ukraine's allies are set to meet in Paris for talks on pressuring Russia to end the war, as U.S.-led diplomatic efforts have stalled due to Washington's focus on its conflict with Iran.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.Ukrainian Drone Attacks Cause Fuel Shortages in Russia as Offensive in Donbass Continues
Ukrainian drone strikes have targeted the Russian oil industry, leading to widespread fuel shortages across Russia. Despite these disruptions, Moscow persists with its military offensive in the Donbass region. The report, filed by Christoph Wanner from Sloviansk, highlights the dual impact of the attacks on Russia's energy infrastructure and the ongoing conflict dynamics. The video accompanying the article shows catch nets deployed in the area to protect against kamikaze drones, illustrating defensive measures amid the escalating drone warfare.
Nachrichten - WELTRussia Claims Capture of Kostiantynivka as Ukrainian Drone Strikes Continue
Russia has reported the capture of the Ukrainian town of Kostiantynivka, though independent experts have cast doubt on the claim. Meanwhile, Ukrainian drone attacks have once again struck targets in St. Petersburg, Russia, and Crimea. Correspondent Christoph Wanner reports that the strikes are causing severe disruptions, including massive power outages and unstable water supplies in affected areas. The report highlights the ongoing impact of Ukrainian offensive operations on Russian infrastructure, even as Moscow asserts territorial gains in eastern Ukraine.
Nachrichten - WELTPutin Faces Increased Pressure as Moscow Is Again Attacked by Drones
Multiple major news outlets report a significant escalation in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Ukrainian forces have launched large-scale drone attacks targeting Moscow, Russian oil refineries, and occupied Crimea. These strikes aim to pressure President Putin to end the war. The attacks have caused civilian casualties on both sides of the border, deepened unease in Russia, and demonstrate Ukraine's growing long-range strike capability. The Washington Post notes growing unease in Russia, while Reuters reports strikes on two oil refineries. CBS News characterizes the coordinated operation as a 'huge drone attack' designed to force a strategic shift. The conflict continues to exact a heavy toll on civilians in border regions, as reported by CNN.
Top stories - Google NewsRussia Declares State of Emergency in Crimea After Major Ukrainian Drone Strikes
On June 26, 2026, the Russian-installed governor of Crimea, Sergey Aksyonov, declared a state of emergency on the peninsula following sustained Ukrainian attacks targeting energy and oil infrastructure. The goal, according to Kyiv, is to isolate Crimea and weaken Russia's war economy. Russia's Defense Ministry claimed to have intercepted 660 drones over twelve regions, Crimea, and the Black Sea overnight, one of the largest such attacks since the war began. Unverified reports from independent Russian media said a chemical plant and hydroelectric plant in Novomoskovsk were hit and caught fire. In Tula region, 157 drones were reportedly shot down. Moscow mayor Sergey Sobyanin reported 47 drones downed on approach to the capital. No casualties were officially confirmed, but a woman was injured in Shchyokino. The attack comes as Ukraine intensifies counterattacks, carrying the war onto Russian territory after more than four years of large-scale invasion.
Nachrichten - WELTRussia says it downed 660 Ukrainian drones in one night; chemical plant hit in massive aerial assault
Russia claimed its air defenses shot down 660 Ukrainian drones in a single night, marking one of the largest aerial attacks of the war. The attack reportedly struck a chemical plant, according to Moscow. The overnight assault represents a significant escalation in drone warfare between the two countries.
"site:indianexpress.com" - Google NewsUkrainian strike kills man in Russian border region
A Ukrainian drone strike killed a man in Russia's Belgorod region on June 24, 2026, according to local authorities. The victim died when a drone exploded in the Veydelevsky district, and a woman was hospitalized with shrapnel wounds. Russia's Defence Ministry reported that its air defense systems destroyed 323 Ukrainian drones overnight across the country. The attack followed a Russian drone strike that killed a woman in Ukraine's Kharkiv region. The article notes that U.S.-led peace talks to end the conflict have stalled, as Washington's attention has shifted to West Asia following strikes on Iran in late February. The warring neighbors have escalated strikes in recent weeks.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.Ukraine launches largest drone attack on Moscow, hitting oil refinery and spreading fear
On June 18, 2026, Ukraine conducted its largest-ever drone attack on Moscow, targeting the Moscow Oil Refinery and other sites. Residents awoke to the roar of drones and black smoke covering the sky, with an 'oil rain' falling from the damaged refinery. Moscow Mayor Sobyanin reported the destruction of nearly 200 drones, while regional governor Vorobyov noted damage to 18 residential blocks. Kremlin spokesman Peskov downplayed the attack, claiming high air defense performance and promising continued strikes on Ukrainian cities. However, Meduza reports that many Muscovites, facing death and destruction firsthand, now doubt the government's narrative, with some expressing hardened attitudes against Ukrainians. The attack marks a significant escalation, bringing the war directly to the Russian capital more than four years after Putin's invasion order.
Nachrichten - WELTUkraine Launches Massive Aerial Attack on Moscow, Striking Key Oil Refinery
Ukraine conducted its largest aerial assault on Moscow in two years, striking multiple targets including the critical Kapotnya oil refinery which supplies up to 40% of Moscow's petrol and 50% of its diesel. Daylight footage showed massive explosions, anti-drone netting proving ineffective, and a storage tank roof thrown into the air by an errant Russian missile. Russian officials claimed 555 drones intercepted across regions, with Moscow Mayor Sobyanin stating 180 drones were downed near the capital. At least 16 people were injured, airports at Vnukovo, Sheremetyevo, and Zhukovsky saw disruptions, and a high-rise building and shopping center were damaged. Ukrainian President Zelensky framed the attack as retaliation for Russia's strike on Kyiv's historic Dormition Cathedral. The raid may indicate a new phase in Ukraine's long-range air war, with evidence of extended-range 'drone-missiles' like the Bars appearing over Moscow.
The War ZoneRussian Nationalist Calls for Nuclear Weapons Use After Ukrainian Drone Attack on Moscow Refinery
Following a massive Ukrainian drone attack on an oil refinery on the outskirts of Moscow, Russian nationalist oligarch Konstantin Malofeyev called for the use of nuclear weapons, stating 'war means victory at any cost.' Parliament Speaker Vyacheslav Volodin threatened intensified attacks with 'even more powerful weapons.' The drone strike, involving hundreds of drones, caused massive fires and black smoke over Moscow, leading to flight suspensions at four airports. Russia claimed to have shot down 555 drones, with nearly 200 intercepted near Moscow. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy described the operation as a justified response to Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities, aimed at forcing Kremlin chief Vladimir Putin to negotiate.
Nachrichten - WELTUkraine hits Moscow refinery in major drone attack on Russian capital
Ukraine launched a major drone attack on Moscow on Thursday, hitting the Russian capital's oil refinery for the second time that week. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy framed the attack as a response to Russian strikes that damaged the historic Kyiv Pechersk Lavra monastery. Russia retaliated with missile strikes on Kyiv. Moscow Mayor Sobyanin confirmed drones reached the refinery, and a shopping center was slightly damaged. Russia's defense ministry reported 555 drones shot down, with 180 near Moscow. Zelenskyy urged peace talks, but Kremlin aide Ushakov said attacks push back prospects for direct talks. The strikes also hit an oil depot in Rostov and bridges, part of Ukraine's campaign to disrupt Russian logistics. Flights at Moscow airports were suspended, roads closed, and 16 people injured in the Moscow region. Russia faces a gasoline shortage due to cumulative damage to its refineries. Ukraine also reported Russian attacks on Sumy, Dnipro, and Kyiv, with casualties.
Military TimesUkraine hits Moscow refinery in major drone attack on Russian capital
Ukraine launched a major drone attack on Moscow on June 18, 2026, hitting the Russian capital's oil refinery for the second time that week. The attack, which Ukrainian President Zelenskyy described as a fair response to Russian strikes damaging a historic monastery in Kyiv, saw flames and smoke over the Kapotnya district. Russia's defense ministry claimed 555 drones were shot down nationwide, with 180 over Moscow. The attack injured 16 people, forced flight suspensions at all Moscow airports, and halted operations at the refinery. In retaliation, Russia fired missiles into Kyiv, and airstrike alerts were issued across most of Ukraine. Zelenskyy is pushing diplomatically for peace talks, but Moscow says the attacks undermine prospects for negotiations. Ukraine's military also hit an oil depot in Rostov and two bridges, intensifying its campaign against Russian logistics. The conflict, ongoing for over four years, has seen Ukraine increasingly target Russian energy infrastructure with long-range drones.
Defense NewsUkraine hits Moscow refinery in major drone attack on Russian capital
Ukraine launched a massive drone attack on Moscow on June 18, 2026, hitting the city's oil refinery for the second time that week. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy framed the strikes as a response to a Russian attack that damaged a historic monastery in Kyiv. Russia claimed to have shot down 555 drones nationwide, with 180 near Moscow, and retaliated with ballistic missile strikes on Kyiv. The attack disrupted air travel in Moscow and caused damage to a shopping centre and residential buildings. Ukraine also struck an oil depot in the Rostov region and two bridges, intensifying its campaign against Russian energy and logistics infrastructure. Kremlin officials said the attacks undermine prospects for peace talks. The escalation comes over four years into Russia's full-scale invasion, with Ukraine leveraging improved drone capabilities to shift momentum while pursuing a diplomatic push for negotiations.
Defense NewsUkraine Launches Massive Drone Strike on Moscow Region, Hits Key Refinery
Ukrainian forces conducted a large-scale drone attack on the Moscow region, targeting the Moscow oil refinery in the Kapotnya district, located 15 kilometers from the Kremlin. Moscow Mayor Sergey Sobyanin confirmed a fire broke out at the facility, which supplies approximately 40% of the region's gasoline and 50% of its diesel, and also produces aviation fuel for the Russian military. Russian air defenses reportedly shot down 137 drones over the Moscow region, with the Russian Ministry of Defense claiming 555 UAVs were downed nationwide. However, falling debris caused damage to civilian infrastructure, including the Sadovod and Belaya Dacha shopping centers, as well as residential buildings. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated the attack was a 'fully justified response' and part of Kyiv's long-range sanctions. The strike marks the second time this week the refinery was hit, demonstrating Ukraine's growing deep-strike capabilities.
Defence24.comUkraine hits Moscow oil refinery, disrupting commercial flights in major drone attack
On June 18, 2026, Ukraine launched one of its largest drone attacks since the Russian invasion began over four years ago, striking the Moscow Oil Refinery for the second time in a week. Russian officials reported that air defenses shot down 555 drones, with nearly 200 intercepted near Moscow. The attack disrupted commercial flights at four Moscow airports. The strike occurred as Russian President Vladimir Putin hosted ASEAN leaders in Kazan, 700 km east of Moscow, seeking to bolster business ties. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he held a coordination call with U.S. President Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron, and that the G7 summit in France had pledged further support for Ukraine, including enhanced defensive and counterattack capabilities.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.Moscow Hit by Ninth Consecutive Night of Ukrainian Drone Strikes
Ukraine has conducted drone strikes on Moscow for nine consecutive nights, termed 'long-range sanctions.' On the latest day, Russian authorities reported shooting down 60 drones over Moscow and 86 over the wider region, with six wounded. A drone hit the Moscow Refinery, causing a fire and suspending operations; the refinery supplies about 40% of gasoline and 50% of diesel for the Moscow area. Through the first six months of 2026, Russia claims to have downed 1,134 drones targeting Moscow, up from 734 in all of 2025. In response, armed Russian military personnel have been deployed on elevated platforms across Moscow to strengthen defenses. The attacks have led Tatneft to cap fuel purchases at 20 liters of gasoline and 40 liters of diesel per car, accepting only cash. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy stated the strike was a 'just response' to Russian attacks and highlighted Ukraine's ability to hit targets 500 km away, calling for stronger long-range capabilities to force an end to the war.
19FortyFiveUkrainian Drones Strike Russian Industrial Facilities, Causing Heavy Smoke and Fires
Ukraine launched a drone attack on industrial facilities in Russia, targeting a chemical plant and a fuel depot. The attack resulted in heavy smoke and fires, according to reports. Die Welt correspondent Max Hermes reported from Kyiv that the scale of the damage is such that it can no longer be concealed by Russian state propaganda. The incident underscores the ongoing cross-border drone warfare between Ukraine and Russia, with Ukraine increasingly striking deep into Russian territory to disrupt military logistics and industrial infrastructure.
Nachrichten - WELTRussia Reports 185 Ukrainian Drone Downings in 12 Hours, Including Attacks on Moscow
Russia reported a massive Ukrainian drone attack, with its Defense Ministry stating that 185 unmanned aerial vehicles were shot down within a twelve-hour period. The attacks targeted multiple regions, including Moscow, marking one of the largest drone offensives by Ukraine since the start of the war. The report from Russian authorities highlights the scale and intensity of the assault, though no immediate details on casualties or damage were provided. The incident underscores the ongoing escalation in aerial warfare between the two countries.
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