In a significant escalation of the conflict, Ukrainian forces struck deep into Russian territory with drone attacks hitting buildings in Moscow and Russia's sixth-largest city, while Russian-controlled Donetsk faced fatal shelling.
Moscow Under Fire
The Russian defence ministry confirmed that Ukrainian drones targeted buildings in Moscow's southwest, with emergency services reporting damage to at least two residential blocks. While there were no immediate reports of casualties in the capital, the attack represents one of the most audacious strikes on Moscow since the conflict began.
Regional Capital Targeted
In a coordinated effort, drones also struck Nizhny Novgorod, a major industrial centre located approximately 400 kilometres east of Moscow. The attack on Russia's sixth-most populous city demonstrates Ukraine's expanding capability to strike strategic targets far from the front lines.
Donetsk Casualties Mount
Meanwhile, in Russian-occupied Donetsk, local officials reported at least four fatalities and five injuries from Ukrainian shelling. The attack hit a busy market area in the Tekstilshchik neighbourhood, causing significant destruction and civilian casualties.
International Response
The United States has maintained its position of not encouraging Ukrainian strikes inside Russia, though Washington continues to supply military aid to Kyiv. These latest attacks come as Western leaders debate the provision of longer-range weapons to Ukraine, which could further change the dynamics of the conflict.
The simultaneous strikes across multiple Russian regions and the ongoing fighting in occupied territories highlight the expanding geographical scope of the war, with neither side showing signs of backing down as the conflict enters a critical phase.
