Ukraine launched what Russian authorities described as the largest Moscow drone attack since the beginning of the full-scale war, with nearly 200 drones targeting areas around the Russian capital and causing fires, disruptions and injuries.
According to officials, 17 people were injured in the wider Moscow region. Russia’s Defence Ministry said almost 1,000 drones and four Ukrainian cruise missiles had been intercepted and destroyed across the country within 24 hours.
The drone attack in Moscow also struck infrastructure in southern Russia. Authorities reported that an oil depot in the Rostov region was hit, leaving one person dead.
Oil refinery hit as airports suspend operations
Fires broke out after the Kapotnya refinery in south-east Moscow was reportedly hit for the third time within a month and for the second time this week. Thick smoke rose over parts of the city, while footage circulating online showed significant damage near industrial facilities.
Reports also said a nearby shopping centre caught fire after drone debris fell on the building, while several residential high-rise buildings were evacuated as a precaution.
The drone attack caused major travel disruption, with Moscow’s four airports temporarily suspending operations and more than 500 flights either cancelled or delayed.
Zelensky links strike to previous Russian attacks
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky referred to the operation as “long-range sanctions”, a term Kyiv has used to describe long-distance strikes against Russian territory.
Zelensky said the attack was a response to recent Russian strikes on Kyiv, including an assault that reportedly damaged a major religious landmark.
“We don’t want this war and have never wanted it,” Zelensky said, adding that Russia should take diplomatic steps towards ending the conflict.
Long-range strikes becoming more frequent
The use of long-range drones by Ukraine has increased significantly since the first successful strikes on Moscow in spring 2023.
Although Russia has strengthened air defences around the capital, Ukrainian capabilities have expanded and attacks involving larger numbers of drones have become more frequent.
Meanwhile, Ukraine said Russia launched more than 200 drones and several ballistic missiles against Ukrainian territory overnight.
The war between Russia and Ukraine continues into its fifth year, with both sides intensifying long-range attacks far from frontline areas.
⚡️Residents of the moscow region are reporting an “oil rain.”
— BLYSKAVKA (@blyskavka_ua) June 18, 2026
According to residents of Zheleznodorozhny, dark traces resembling soot or petroleum products were left on cars, windowsills, and other surfaces after the rainfall.
👉Follow@blyskavka_ua pic.twitter.com/qasZJlN8nd
Also read: Possible Iran-US talks in Switzerland on Friday
For more videos and updates, check out our YouTube channel
