Moscow [Russia], January 5: A swarm of Ukrainian drones has become the target of air defences while approaching the Russian capital, Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said on Sunday, according to the state news agency TASS.
At least 32 drones have already been shot down, Sobyanin said, without providing any information about possible damage or casualties.
Due to the approach of the drones, flight operations at Moscow's Zhukovsky and Vnukovo airports were temporarily suspended for safety reasons. Incoming flights were rerouted.
Since the beginning of the war ordered by Russian President Vladimir Putin in early 2022, Russia has systematically bombarded the hinterland of its neighbour with drones, rockets and cruise missiles. However, Ukraine is now also attacking targets - primarily in the oil and gas industry - far beyond the Russian border. The aim is to disrupt the fuel supply of the Russian army and hinder war financing.
Meanwhile, a Ukrainian soldier was injured when a car exploded in Kiev on Sunday, the city prosecutor's office said.
The office said the blast occurred when the boot of the vehicle was opened. The soldier was wounded by shrapnel.
An investigation has been opened on suspicion of a terrorist attack. The investigators did not provide further details, including the ownership of the vehicle or possible motives.
Ukraine has frequently warned of the threat of attacks and sabotage at home as it fights Russia's invasion. Several such incidents have previously resulted in fatalities.
Source: Qatar Tribune
