Russian air defences intercept 287 Ukrainian drones, forcing temporary closure of Moscow airports, as strikes hit energy facilities in Ukraine
MOSCOW: Russian air defences shot down 287 Ukrainian drones overnight in one of the largest single-night interceptions of the conflict.
The defence ministry stated that 32 of the intercepted drones were headed towards the Russian capital.
All four of Moscow’s airports were temporarily suspended due to the aerial threat, according to Russia’s civil aviation authority.
St. Petersburg’s Pulkovo Airport accepted diverted flights during the disruptions.
In Ukraine, the head of the Poltava regional military administration reported Russian attacks on local energy facilities overnight.
The strikes sparked fires, adding to Ukraine’s energy infrastructure challenges.
In a recent interview, the CEO of Ukraine’s state gas operator Naftogaz warned the country may be facing its toughest winter since the war began.
Sergiy Koretsky said this year’s strikes have been more intense and started earlier in the season.
An analysis of Ukrainian air force statistics shows Russia has launched record numbers of drones and missiles at Ukraine in recent months.
Ukrainian officials stated on Wednesday that an updated proposal to end the conflict had been submitted to Washington. – AFP
