Kyiv, January 5 - Russia's Defence Ministry has reported that Ukraine has launched drone attacks targeting Moscow every day in 2026 so far, marking an apparent escalation in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. According to official statements, this daily pattern represents a shift from previous years, when Ukrainian drone strikes on the Russian capital occurred more sporadically, often tied to specific dates or events. The intensified Ukraine drone attacks on Moscow highlight Kyiv's growing capability to conduct long-range operations deep into Russian territory amid the prolonged conflict.
On January 5 alone, Russian air defences claimed to have intercepted 57 drones over the Moscow region, part of a broader total of 437 downed across Russia that day. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin has noted multiple interceptions since the start of the year, though details on potential damage remain limited. These Ukraine drone strikes have prompted temporary closures at several Moscow airports, including major hubs like Vnukovo, causing flight delays and disruptions during Russia's extended holiday period. The aviation authority Rosaviatsiya confirmed safety-related halts at numerous facilities nationwide in response to the heightened threat from Ukrainian drones.
Kyiv has not commented directly on the latest wave, but Ukraine has consistently justified its use of long-range drones as a means to target military logistics and energy infrastructure supporting Russia's war effort. Such operations are presented as retaliation for ongoing Russian missile and drone assaults on Ukrainian cities and critical facilities, nearly four years into the full-scale invasion launched by Moscow. This escalation in Ukraine's drone campaign against Moscow underscores the evolving tactics in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, with both sides employing unmanned aerial vehicles to extend the reach of their strikes.
The daily targeting of the Russian capital raises concerns about further intensification in the war, as Russia typically downplays impacts unless civilian sites are affected. With no signs of de-escalation, these Ukraine drone attacks on Moscow could strain air defences and influence broader strategic calculations in the protracted Russia-Ukraine war.