Moscow has come under the largest Ukrainian attack since the start of the full-scale war, with nearly 200 drones striking targets around the Russian capital and sending thick columns of smoke billowing into the sky.

Seventeen people were wounded in the Moscow region, according to local governor Andrei Vorobyov. Russia's defense ministry claimed that almost 1,000 drones and four Ukrainian cruise missiles were intercepted and destroyed across the country in 24 hours. An oil depot was struck in the southern Rostov region, killing one person.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Kyiv had once again hit the Moscow region with "long-range sanctions," a euphemism for long-distance strikes. He called for an end to the war through diplomacy, stating the attack was retaliation for Russia's strike on Kyiv last week that set a major religious landmark ablaze.

Fires broke out at the Kapotnya refinery in southeast Moscow, hit for the third time in a month. A nearby shopping center and residential buildings were evacuated. Moscow's four airports were temporarily shut, with over 500 flights canceled or delayed.

Drone attacks on Moscow have become more frequent as Ukraine develops its long-range capabilities. Despite extensive air defenses around Moscow, the sheer number of drones has overwhelmed them. Thursday's barrage raises questions about the effectiveness of air defense systems protecting key infrastructure.

Russia launched over 200 drones and multiple ballistic missiles at Ukraine overnight. President Vladimir Putin, hosting a summit in Kazan, has not commented. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha addressed Muscovites, saying: "Ask Putin when he is planning to end it."

Source: www.bbc.com