Russian forces launch large-scale strikes on Kyiv and Odessa military and communications sites
The Russian army carried out a coordinated night attack on Ukrainian military installations, communications and logistics hubs in Kyiv and the Odessa region, the Moscow Defense Ministry said.
According to the Moscow Defense Ministry, Russian ground-based and air-launched precision weapons, as well as drones, hit a range of targets including naval vessels. The ministry also reported that Russian air defenses downed 40 Ukrainian drones of various types over seven regions. Separate incidents involved a Ukrainian drone striking an unnamed industrial facility in Russia's Krasnodar area and damaging oil-storage buildings in the Roshtov region.
Why it matters
The strikes show intensified Russian offensive operations and the growing role of drones in the Ukraine conflict.
How this story developed
- Sep 1 Russia multiplies jet-powered Shahed drone strikes fivefold in one month
- Sep 12 Russia has broadened deployment of jet‑propelled drones, prompting Kyiv to trial quicker, low‑cost interceptors.
- Sep 20 In the early hours of Friday, Russia's anti-aircraft units reported destroying 35 Ukrainian drones heading for the capital. Local authorities said a comparable wave of drones was also intercepted in the Toula district south of Moscow. The incidents occurred as Russia began a three-day parliamentary and local election cycle. No casualties were reported from the interceptions.
- Sep 20 Zelensky said a major Russian oil refinery, a logistics structure and the Voronezh region were hit in the massive attack.
- Sep 20 Officials reported that 249 unmanned aircraft were intercepted in the latest wave of attacks.
- Sep 21 Russia's defence ministry said it will increase the frequency and precision of its strikes on Kyiv.
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