President Putin accuses Kyiv of trying to scare Russians as drones target Moscow and Ukrainian forces prepare for an offensive.
In the first attack of its kind since the Kremlin’s assault on Ukraine began, drones hit high-rises in Moscow while Russian drones continued to target Kyiv for the third consecutive day.
Although there were no serious injuries or significant damage in Moscow, the attacks shocked some residents who never expected such strikes in the capital.
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The Russian defense ministry reported that eight drones were used, with five being downed and three disabled.
Putin stated that the attacks were a response to a Russian strike on Ukraine’s army intelligence headquarters and accused Ukraine of trying to frighten Russia and its citizens.
The drone attacks in Moscow, far from the front lines in Ukraine, are seen as a major embarrassment for the Kremlin, which has downplayed the threat to Russians from the conflict.
Ukrainian authorities denied any direct involvement in the attacks.