Moscow just faced the largest Ukrainian offensive since the start of the Russian-Ukrainian war, with nearly 200 drones targeting the region. This aerial assault represents a major escalation, as Kyiv continues to push its long-range capabilities deeper into Russian territory. According to the BBC, the operation forced local authorities to take drastic measures, including the temporary closure of Moscow’s four major airports.
Writing on Telegram on Thursday, June 18, as noted by the Kyiv Post, President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed, “Our long-range sanctions once again reached the Moscow region: for the second time in a week, the Moscow Oil Refinery was hit,” he stated. He further emphasized that these strikes are a direct retaliation for Russian aggression, specifically mentioning last week’s attack on Kyiv that damaged a major religious landmark.