Russia intercepts massive Ukrainian drone attack across several regions

09:20

By: Dakir Madiha

Russia intercepts massive Ukrainian drone attack across several regions

Russia reported the interception of 90 Ukrainian drones overnight on December 12 in what officials described as one of the largest aerial assaults since the start of intensified cross-border attacks. According to the Russian Defense Ministry, the majority of the drones targeted the Bryansk region near the Ukrainian border, while others were intercepted over Moscow, Tver, Yaroslavl, Smolensk, and several other areas.

Widespread targeting and civilian impact

Authorities confirmed that 63 drones were shot down over Bryansk, with additional interceptions across eight other regions, including Yaroslavl, Moscow, Smolensk, and the Black Sea zone. In the city of Tver, located northwest of Moscow, a drone explosion struck a residential building, injuring seven people, among them a child. Emergency services evacuated residents from damaged homes and set up temporary shelters for those affected.

Witnesses reported heavy explosions and smoke rising from multiple impact sites. Local officials said rescue operations continued through the early hours as teams assessed the structural safety of nearby buildings.

Escalating aerial confrontation

The overnight strike follows a previous wave on December 11, when 32 Ukrainian drones were reported shot down, including 10 near Moscow. Temporary air restrictions were imposed at Moscow’s airports as a precaution. These repeated long-range strikes underline an intensifying phase in the ongoing confrontation, as Ukraine continues expanding its drone offensive deeper into Russian territory.

The drone campaign has increasingly targeted infrastructure and energy facilities, while Russian forces persist with missile and drone barrages against Ukrainian cities. The sustained attacks on both sides come amid dimming hopes for diplomatic progress, with Washington expressing frustration over stalled negotiations and European leaders warning of a prolonged conflict with far-reaching regional consequences.