Local officials report that over 60,000 air passengers are currently stranded at various airports in Russia due to a large-scale drone attack from Ukraine. The situation escalated amid Ukraine's rejection of a proposed Russian ceasefire and continued violence in Kyiv.
Ukrainian Drone Strikes Leave 60,000 Passengers Stranded in Russia
Ukrainian Drone Strikes Leave 60,000 Passengers Stranded in Russia
A massive Ukrainian drone attack has disrupted air travel across Russia, stranding tens of thousands of passengers as the conflict intensifies.
At least 60,000 air travelers are stranded across multiple airports in Russia following a large Ukrainian drone assault, according to local officials. The Russian Association of Tour Operators (Ator) disclosed that around 350 flights have been affected since Tuesday evening, impacting major cities including Moscow, St. Petersburg, and Sochi.
The Russian defense ministry reported that 524 Ukrainian drones were shot down in the previous 24 hours—a potential record if verified. Despite the drone attacks, no casualties have been confirmed in Russia's air traffic disruptions. In contrast, the conflict in Ukraine continues, with casualties reported following a Russian missile and drone strike in Kyiv, where two individuals lost their lives.
As a self-declared three-day ceasefire proposed by Russia is set to begin tonight ahead of a military parade commemorating World War II, Ukraine criticized the truce as a mere political ploy. Kyiv insists on an unconditional 30-day ceasefire, supported by its European and U.S. allies. Russian pre-conditions for dialogue have tightened, with Ukraine asserting these demands are strategies to prolong the conflict.
U.S. Vice-President JD Vance expressed a hardened stance against Russian demands, emphasizing the need for direct dialogue between Moscow and Kyiv. The air traffic disruptions extend to three key Moscow airports—Vnukovo, Sheremetyevo, and Domodedovo—where approximately 110 flights have been canceled. St. Petersburg’s Pulkovo airport reported numerous flights either delayed or canceled, with footage showing stranded vehicles on the runway.
Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to Moscow is coinciding with these escalated tensions, as various world leaders prepare for the Victory Day parade in Red Square to celebrate the defeat of Nazi Germany. However, some leaders have faced travel disruptions due to airspace denials from Baltic States.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the ongoing Russian aggression and called for increased pressure on Moscow. Engagement with foreign troops at the Victory Day celebrations has been labeled unacceptable by Ukraine, which emphasizes the need to counter portrayal of Russian actions as legitimate.
As the situation unfolds, the war's impact on civilians and international relations remains a pressing concern, with growing calls for the conflict to reach a resolute end.
