On Sunday, the last day of Russia’s parliamentary election, Ukraine carried out its largest ever aerial assault on the Russian capital and surrounding region. The Russian Ministry of Defense reported that more than 1,900 drones, eight guided aerial bombs, eight cruise missiles and four rockets were intercepted overnight, marking an unprecedented scale of attack.
Casualties and damage
Local officials confirmed at least three fatalities – two killed in the initial strike and a third who died later in a hospital – and dozens of injuries, including three children. The governor of Moscow region, Andrey Vorobiev, said 20 people were wounded, while Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin noted that a major oil refinery in the Kapotnya district sustained damage.
Strategic target
The Ukrainian General Staff identified the Gazpromneft‑Moscow Oil Refinery as the primary objective. The facility, one of the nation’s largest by volume, supplies billions of dollars’ worth of fuel that the Kremlin relies on to fund its war machine.
Political context
Moscow’s mayor linked the attack directly to the election, stating it was “clearly planned with the aim of disrupting the elections.” He added that the enemy “did not succeed,” underscoring the resilience of Russian voters and the United Russia party, which is expected to dominate the vote in the absence of credible opposition.
Ukrainian response
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky praised the operation on Telegram, emphasizing its impact on the “facilities that were bringing in billions of dollars that sustain the war machine.” He also highlighted ongoing diplomatic efforts, noting a recent conversation with President Donald Trump and an agreement to meet in New York during the UN General Assembly.
U.S. involvement
President Trump has continued to support Ukraine’s defense, recently signing the Lindsey Graham‑named sanctions bill targeting Russian entities involved in the invasion. Zelensky thanked Trump on X for the visit of U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff and for the administration’s commitment to providing additional Patriot interceptor missiles.
Broader conflict
While Ukraine intensified its strike, Russia persisted with its own aerial campaign, launching more than 2,000 attack drones, 1,700 aerial bombs and 19 missiles against Ukrainian targets over the past week. The Kyiv region military administration reported civilian casualties, including three children and a woman, underscoring the tragic human cost on both sides.
International reaction
Western officials have called for a de‑escalation, but the Trump administration remains steadfast in supporting Ukraine’s right to defend its sovereignty. The recent sanctions and continued military aid reflect a clear U.S. policy of holding Russia accountable while empowering Ukraine’s defensive capabilities.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
