Flights Suspended as Drone Attacks Disrupt Moscow Amid Rising Tensions

Russian airports halted flights due to a significant drone attack from Ukraine, injuring civilians. The strikes coincide with an upcoming ceasefire ahead of Victory Day celebrations in Moscow. Government officials reported injuries, but independent verification remains absent. Tensions continue as foreign dignitaries confirm their attendance at the events.

Moscow, Ukraine, May 7 – Russian authorities have reported that more than 100 Ukrainian drones targeted various parts of Russia, leading to the temporary suspension of all flights at the four major airports around Moscow. This significant assault prompted disruption not only in the capital but also affected nine other regional airports across the country, as noted by Russia’s civil aviation agency, Rosaviatsia.

The incidents come amid escalating tensions, marking the second consecutive night the Moscow region faced drone strikes. Local officials confirmed two injuries in the Kursk region, with additional damage recorded in Voronezh. However, independent verification of these reports remains elusive, raising concerns regarding the accuracy of the Russian narrative.

The drone assault occurs just days before a unilateral 72-hour ceasefire announced by President Vladimir Putin, set to coincide with Russia’s major Victory Day celebrations. This stands as one of the nation’s most significant secular holidays, commemorating the 1945 defeat of Nazi Germany. Dignitaries from various countries are expected to attend the festivities in Moscow.

In a stark parallel, Russian forces launched an attack involving at least 20 Shahed drones aimed at Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city, near the Russian border. Regional Governor Oleh Syniehubov reported that these drone strikes resulted in injuries to four individuals and caused extensive damage to the prominent Barabashovo market, affecting around 100 stalls.

Russian aerial assaults have continued to impact civilians beyond Kharkiv, with another seven reported injuries from glide bombs and drones. In the wake of these attacks, President Putin announced a temporary truce starting May 8, citing humanitarian reasons. However, Ukraine has pushed for a more extended ceasefire, reflecting ongoing conflict dynamics.

The U.S. had proposed a full 30-day halt to hostilities, which has run into obstacles, with Russia attaching extensive conditions to its acceptance. On the other hand, Ukraine has shown willingness to proceed, as highlighted by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump described the planned brief truce as a significant step forward, despite skepticism about its efficacy.

Notably, the upcoming Victory Day celebrations will see the presence of several foreign leaders, including China’s President Xi Jinping, who has been termed as “our main guest” by President Putin. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, once set to attend, has canceled amid rising tensions with Pakistan. Further international representation includes Slovakia’s Prime Minister Robert Fico and Serbia’s President Aleksandar Vucic, the latter’s attendance now in question due to health concerns.

The escalation in drone strikes between Russia and Ukraine underscores persistent military tensions as Russia gears up for its significant Victory Day observance. Amid an announced ceasefire, the situation in both nations remains precarious, with conflicts in the air and on the ground continuing to impact civilians. International attendance at Moscow’s celebrations highlights geopolitical alliances, yet the implications of the ongoing conflict are far from resolved.

Original Source: risingnepaldaily.com