For the First Time, Zelenskyy Acknowledges Drone Strike on Moscow, Calling It 'Long-Range Sanctions'

Massive Drone Assault Targets Moscow Region

According to ХВИЛЯ: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has publicly confirmed Kyiv's role in a large-scale drone attack on the Moscow region, describing the operation as a form of long-range sanctions. The strike, launched from over 500 kilometers inside Ukrainian territory, took place on the night of May 17. Targets included:

• The Moscow Oil Refinery
• The Solnechnogorsk oil depot
• Sheremetyevo Airport
• Microelectronics facilities, notably the Angstrem plant in Zelenograd

In a statement posted to social media at 12:17 PM, Zelenskyy said: “These are entirely justified responses to Russia's prolongation of the war and its strikes on our cities and communities. This time, Ukraine's long-range sanctions reached the Moscow region, and we are telling Russians clearly: their state must end its war.” He also thanked Ukraine's Security Service and all defense forces for their precision in carrying out the mission.

The attack employed FP-1 and Lyuty drones, along with the Bars drone-missile, which has an estimated range of 700–800 kilometers. Explosions were reported in towns including Klin, Skhodnya, Khimki, Dedovsk, and Durikino. In Dedovsk, a five-story residential building was damaged, and three people were hospitalized. Russia's Transport Ministry stated that 51 planes were unable to land at Moscow airports due to the incident. Residents of Khimki, Mytishchi, Zelenograd, and Lobnya complained that air raid sirens and SMS alerts failed to activate.

This marks the first time Ukrainian leadership has publicly confirmed involvement in such an attack. Zelenskyy noted: “The concentration of Russian air defense in the Moscow region is the highest. But we overcome it. Glory to Ukraine!” Activist Serhiy Sternenko added, “There will be more to come,” signaling the potential for further operations.

The assault on the Moscow region represents a pivotal moment in the ongoing conflict, demonstrating Ukraine's ability to strike deep within Russian territory. This development could reshape military strategies on both sides and influence public perception of the war. How Russia responds may prove critical to the conflict's next phase of escalation.

The recent drone strike on Moscow underscores the escalating nature of the conflict, as evidenced by a parallel incident where over 400 drones targeted Ukraine. This intensifying warfare has prompted President Zelenskyy to announce new air defense measures in response to the increasing threats. For further insights into the challenges faced by Ukraine and the government's strategic responses, see more about the recent drone attacks and enhanced air defense initiatives.