Ukrainian drone hits Moscow high-rise before Victory day parade

Attack near city centre raises security fears days before Russia’s key national event.

A satellite image shows a destroyed TU 22 aircraft in the aftermath of a drone strike at the Belaya air base, Irkutsk region, Russia, June 4, 2025, Maxar Technologies/Handout via REUTERS THIS IMAGE HAS BEEN SUPPLIED BY A THIRD PARTY. NO RESALES. NO ARCHIVES. MANDATORY CREDIT. MUST NOT OBSCURE LOGO.

A Ukrainian drone struck a residential high-rise in Moscow early Monday, damaging part of the building but causing no casualties. Authorities said two other drones were intercepted, while debris was seen scattered near the site.

The strike comes just days before Russia’s Victory Day parade on May 9, held annually at Red Square. Officials have already scaled back this year’s event, citing security concerns. Airports, including Vnukovo International Airport and Domodedovo International Airport, temporarily halted operations during the attacks.

Russia’s defence ministry said it intercepted 117 drones across multiple regions overnight, including a large wave targeting the St Petersburg area. The incident marks the third consecutive night of drone activity over Moscow.

Ukraine has increasingly used long-range drones to strike deep inside Russia since the war began in 2022, while Moscow continues daily air attacks on Ukrainian cities.

With tensions rising ahead of Victory Day, the latest strike highlights growing security risks even in Russia’s most protected areas.

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