Ukraine strikes back with drones, disrupting Moscow airports

Ukraine launched drone strikes against Russia on June 8, 2025, leading to the temporary closure of two major airports in Moscow, Vnukovo and Domodedovo, along with a nearby airport in Kaluga. The Russian Federal Agency for Air Transport disclosed that these restrictions were enforced to ensure the safety of civil aircraft flights. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin confirmed on Telegram that several drones were shot down as they approached the city, with emergency services deployed to handle the aftermath of falling debris. The Russian Defense Ministry reported that it intercepted and destroyed 61 drones over multiple regions. This escalation in conflict comes amid ongoing tensions surrounding Ukraine's ongoing efforts to target Russian military capabilities. The strikes specifically targeted locations integral to Russia's military-industrial complex, such as a drone that crashed into the Azot chemical plant in Novomoskovsk. Reports indicate that this facility produces explosives used in military applications. On the same day, Russia highlighted its drone capabilities by conducting strikes targeting Ukrainian positions, which included a MaxxPro armored vehicle and an ammunition depot. The recent drone strikes are perceived not only as a retaliation against ongoing Russian attacks but also as a pivotal moment in Ukraine's strategy to undermine Russian military operations. Reports of the heightened use of drones and coordinated strikes by Ukraine suggest a shift in the dynamics of the conflict. Analysts have noted that this operation, which Ukrainian officials claim was planned meticulously, indicates a level of military sophistication that could change the course of ongoing hostilities. As the clashes intensify, political discussions about a stalled prisoner exchange deal highlight the complexity of the situation. Both Ukraine and Russia continue to accuse each other of delaying negotiations, leading to increased hostilities. This situation presents a fraught backdrop to the continuous military engagements that have substantially impacted civilian life and infrastructure in both countries, elevating concerns about further escalation in the ongoing war.