Major Disruption at Moscow Airports Amidst Ukrainian Drone Strikes

The recent wave of Ukrainian drone attacks has forced the temporary closure of Moscow's airports, resulting in over 140 flight cancellations and a heightened military response from Russia. Amid ongoing hostilities, contrasting diplomatic efforts are being considered to negotiate peace.

Moscow's major airports faced significant disruption after a series of Ukrainian drone attacks led to the cancellation of at least 140 flights. Russian officials reported that over 230 Ukrainian drones were intercepted since Saturday morning, including 27 over the capital city. The Russian aviation authority indicated that all four main airports in the area were affected, with more than 130 flights also directed to alternative airports before services resumed.

In a tragic turn of events, Russian airstrikes on Ukraine resulted in the deaths of at least three individuals overnight, as confirmed by local officials. The Moscow region was impacted multiple times in just one day, with closures reported 10 times in 24 hours due to the drone strikes. The Kaluga region, located southwest of Moscow, experienced similar disruptions, further highlighting the ongoing tension.

According to Russian defense reports, 45 drones were intercepted in the country, with others reportedly downed in regions close to the Ukrainian borders, including Rostov and Bryansk. No injuries were announced from these interceptions. Previously, in May, a large-scale drone offensive from Ukraine left around 60,000 passengers stranded at various Russian airports after over 500 drones were launched in a single day.

Simultaneously, regional authorities in Ukraine reported fatalities in Donetsk from Russian aerial assaults, which also led to widespread destruction in residential areas, including Sumy. The Ukrainian air force claimed to have shot down 18 of 57 drones launched by Russian forces overnight.

The situation is compounded by ongoing discussions about potential peace negotiations. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov indicated that President Vladimir Putin is open to moving towards a peace settlement, albeit stating that Russia seeks to achieve its objectives first. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has proposed new talks with Moscow to revitalize stalled negotiations.

As the humanitarian crisis intensifies and diplomatic efforts emerge, the ongoing battle lines remain stark, with casualties rising on both sides. Recent international support for Ukraine, including from U.S. President Donald Trump, who committed to sending high-level military equipment, continues to shift the dynamics of the conflict.