For the second consecutive night, Ukrainian drone attacks forced the temporary closure of all four major airports in Moscow, according to Russia’s aviation authority, Rosaviatsia. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin reported that air defense systems intercepted at least 19 drones targeting the capital. Across Russia, military officials claimed to have shot down a total of 105 Ukrainian drones overnight, with attempted strikes also reported in Penza and Voronezh regions. Ukraine has not officially commented on the attacks.
These developments come just ahead of a temporary ceasefire announced by Russia, set for May 8–11, to coincide with Victory Day celebrations marking the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany. Major events are planned in Moscow for the holiday.
Despite the upcoming ceasefire, hostilities continue. In Ukraine, a Russian missile hit residential areas in the southern city of Odesa, killing one civilian and sparking fires. In Kharkiv, a prolonged drone attack lasted over two hours, with 20 drones hitting the city and causing psychological trauma to four civilians. In the Dnipropetrovsk region, a man was seriously injured following strikes involving drones and anti-tank missiles.
Meanwhile, Ukraine claimed a targeted airstrike on a Russian drone command post in the Kursk region over the weekend, reportedly killing up to 20 personnel and destroying equipment. Kursk’s governor later reported that three people were killed and seven injured in Ukrainian attacks in the area, including drone strikes that hit civilian targets and damaged infrastructure.
Key Points:
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Moscow Airports Closed: Drone attacks forced shutdown of all major airports in Moscow for the second night.
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Drones Intercepted: 19 drones intercepted near Moscow; 105 drones claimed downed across Russia.
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Odesa Missile Strike: Russian missile killed one civilian and caused fires in Odesa.
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Kharkiv and Dnipropetrovsk Hit: Russian drone strikes affected multiple regions, injuring civilians.
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Ukrainian Counterstrike: Ukraine claimed an airstrike on a Russian command post in Kursk.
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Civilians Affected in Kursk: Russian officials reported casualties and infrastructure damage from Ukrainian attacks.
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Ceasefire Approaching: Temporary ceasefire scheduled May 8–11 for Victory Day commemorations.
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Continued Escalation: Despite planned ceasefire, cross-border attacks persist on both sides.
Though a ceasefire is planned to coincide with Russia’s Victory Day, recent drone and missile exchanges reflect ongoing military escalation. Both Ukraine and Russia continue to target key infrastructure and military positions, causing civilian casualties and highlighting the fragile nature of any pause in the conflict.
