Moscow: Tensions have risen again in the Russia-Ukraine war following a major Ukrainian drone attack on Moscow. Russian officials said a large number of drones were used in the attack and that several locations in the Moscow region, including an oil refinery, were damaged. At least three people were reportedly killed.

Russian officials claimed that air-defence systems intercepted hundreds of drones approaching Moscow and surrounding areas. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin described it as one of the largest drone attacks on the capital. A multi-storey building was also damaged, and a large number of people had to be moved to safer locations.

Following the attack, Russia indicated that it could intensify retaliatory action against Ukraine. The Russian side said precision strikes on military targets in Kyiv would be stepped up. The statement came as long-range drone and missile attacks between the two countries continue.

Ukraine, meanwhile, has said that its long-range strikes are aimed at energy and logistics infrastructure connected to Russia’s war capability. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy referred to the impact of the attack in the Moscow region and described it as part of a strategy aimed at affecting Russia’s war machine.

The attack on Moscow took place on the final day of Russia’s parliamentary elections, prompting discussion over its possible political impact. However, the two sides have different claims regarding any connection between the attack and the elections.

Russian drone attacks have also continued in different parts of Ukraine, with reports of civilian deaths and property damage.

As the Russia-Ukraine conflict continues, attacks targeting energy facilities, military sites and transport infrastructure have remained a feature of the war. Following Moscow’s latest warning, the two sides could see further escalation in aerial attacks in the coming days.