Ukraine, Russia Escalate Drone Strikes Before Victory Day

Ukraine launched a major overnight drone offensive on multiple Russian regions, including Moscow, just days before Russia's Victory Day celebrations, causing temporary closure of Moscow's main airports and flight restrictions nationwide. Russian authorities reported intercepting 105 drones, with 19 shot down near Moscow and no casualties reported in the capital, while attacks in regions such as Kursk resulted in infrastructure damage and civilian casualties. The strikes come amid heightened security as world leaders, including China's Xi Jinping, are expected at the 80th anniversary of Victory Day, and President Putin has announced a three-day ceasefire for the event. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy warned that Kyiv cannot guarantee the safety of foreign delegations visiting Russia, while Russian officials accused Ukraine of threatening world leaders. Ukraine reportedly struck a Russian drone control center in Kursk, killing up to 20 soldiers, and Russian drone attacks killed at least one person in Ukraine's Odesa region. The escalation underscores intensifying cross-border hostilities ahead of significant commemorations.