Kyiv / Moscow – Web Desk: The Russia–Ukraine war escalated sharply as Ukraine launched a large-scale drone and missile attack targeting Moscow, striking a key oil refinery and triggering fires in the Russian capital, according to officials.
Russia’s Ministry of Defence claimed that air defence systems intercepted and destroyed 555 Ukrainian drones overnight, including nearly 200 directed toward the Moscow region. Despite this, several drones reportedly reached a major oil refinery in Moscow, causing fires and localized damage.
Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin confirmed that multiple drones struck the refinery, adding that a nearby shopping centre was also slightly damaged. It is the second reported strike on the facility within a week, highlighting its strategic importance in supplying fuel to the Russian capital.
Authorities also reported damage to residential buildings, industrial sites, and infrastructure in Moscow’s surrounding regions. Operations at Sheremetyevo Airport were temporarily suspended, with passengers evacuated for safety.
Ukraine, meanwhile, said Russia launched a large retaliatory strike involving 239 drones and seven ballistic missiles targeting Kyiv and other regions. Ukrainian air defence systems intercepted most of the incoming attacks, though at least one person was reported killed in the northeastern city of Sumy following a drone strike.
The renewed exchange of heavy attacks comes as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy seeks stronger international support from the United States and European allies to end the war. Leaders of the G7 have pledged enhanced air defence support for Ukraine and increased economic pressure on Russia.
US President Donald Trump said efforts were ongoing to help end the conflict, while Ukraine reported assurances of additional missile defence systems and winter aid packages from Western partners.
