Ukraine launches over 1,000 drones at Russia

Ukraine launched more than 1,000 drones at Russia on Sunday, including hundreds aimed at Moscow, killing at least two people and damaging a major refinery, officials said.

The strikes took place on the final day of Russia’s parliamentary elections, officials said, and targeted Moscow and its surrounding region. Officials said air defenses engaged many of the drones but that blasts and fires were reported in the capital’s outskirts.

Moscow-region casualties and refinery damage

Officials reported at least two fatalities and said a large refinery suffered damage; they described the incidents as the result of multiple simultaneous strikes. No independent casualty count was provided and the figures remain those given by authorities.

The operation marks a marked intensification in long-range drone activity, officials said. The scale of the launch raises the prospect of a military or political response from Moscow and could put regional fuel logistics under pressure if refinery repairs take time.

Monitor Russia’s response through Sept. 22, 2026, for signs of escalatory military moves, tighter air defenses around key energy hubs, or measures affecting fuel distribution. Officials said investigations and damage assessments are under way; further casualty and infrastructure reports are expected in the coming 48 hours.