Kiev: Russia attacked with 60 drones

On June 18, 2026, Moscow experienced one of the most significant drone attacks since the beginning of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. According to reports, nearly 200 Ukrainian drones were launched toward the Russian capital during the night, targeting critical infrastructure, including a major oil refinery located in the Kapotnya district. The attack resulted in fires and explosions at the facility, which sent thick plumes of smoke into the air over parts of the city. The incident also led to visible signs of damage on vehicles and other surfaces due to spilled oil, adding to the chaos caused by the assault.

The mayor of Moscow, Sergei Sobyanin, confirmed that Russia's air defense systems managed to intercept approximately 180 of the incoming drones. However, some of these unmanned aerial vehicles successfully reached their intended targets, including the oil refinery. Images shared on social media platforms showed the refinery engulfed in flames, with residents expressing shock and confusion about the sudden escalation of hostilities. The attack disrupted normal life in the city, prompting authorities to restrict flight operations at four major airports—Domodedovo, Sheremetyevo, Shukovsky, and Vnukovo—as a precautionary measure.

The assault marked a turning point in the ongoing conflict, as it brought the war closer to the heart of Russia, challenging the perception among many citizens that they were insulated from the effects of the war. The attack also raised questions about the resilience of Russia’s energy infrastructure, particularly its oil processing capabilities. Reports indicated that while the immediate availability of fuel and other petroleum products remained unaffected, the long-term implications of such strikes could be substantial.

President Vladimir Putin was reportedly in Kazan, approximately 700 kilometers east of Moscow, attending a meeting with Asian leaders when the attack occurred. His administration has been relatively silent on the matter, issuing minimal official statements beyond administrative updates. In contrast, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed the situation more directly, using the opportunity to highlight what he described as “long-range sanctions” aimed at deterring further aggression against Ukrainian cities and communities. He emphasized that the attack on the oil refinery was a justified response to previous Russian strikes on Ukrainian territory.

Zelenskyy also drew a parallel between this attack and the recent destruction of the Church of the Dormition of the Mother of God in Kyiv, which had been damaged by Russian drones. During a press conference, he reiterated his stance that the war was not initiated by Ukraine and expressed hope that Russia would take necessary steps to end the conflict through diplomatic channels. Meanwhile, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha took to social media to address the confusion in Moscow, stating that the attack was a direct consequence of Russia’s ongoing military actions against Ukraine.

Residents of Moscow awoke to scenes of devastation, with many questioning why their city had become a target. The psychological impact of the attack was evident, as it shattered the illusion that the war was distant and contained within Ukraine. As the dust settled, both sides prepared for potential retaliatory measures, with each nation likely assessing the strategic value of the strike and planning subsequent moves in the ongoing conflict.