Ukraine’s Largest Drone Assault Deepens the Russia War

2026, September 21

Russia / Ukraine

Ukraine launched a reported large-scale drone attack against Russia, including the Moscow region, as Russia concluded its parliamentary elections. Russian authorities said hundreds of drones were intercepted, while reports indicated deaths, injuries and damage to an oil facility. Russia responded with strikes on Zaporizhzhia, where residential buildings and public facilities were hit.

The attacks mark a further expansion of the conflict beyond the front line and raise concerns about damage to energy infrastructure and the possibility of additional retaliation. Moscow accused Kyiv of trying to disrupt the election, while Ukraine has described long-range attacks as part of its effort to weaken Russia’s military logistics and war-supporting industries.