Last week, residents of Moscow witnessed a scene of dark smoke looming over the city while Ukrainian drones were flying overhead. This marked the largest drone attack by Ukraine on the Russian capital since the commencement of Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022. As a result, numerous flights were either delayed or canceled, and a significant oil refinery on the outskirts of the city was repeatedly targeted and set ablaze.
In response to the attacks, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy declared, “If Ukraine is going to burn, your Moscow will burn too.” These recent strikes have brought the war closer to home for many Russians, disrupting their daily routines and undermining their sense of security.
Experts suggest that these attacks could intensify domestic concerns as the conflict prolongs. The impact of this discontent on Russian President Vladimir Putin’s hold on power or the possibility of further escalation remains uncertain.
Historian Anne Applebaum highlighted that the recent drone strikes on Moscow were the first time Muscovites experienced “real drone campaigns” since the war began. She emphasized that while these attacks may not immediately end the conflict, they could lead to a significant shift in the mindset of influential figures who have an impact on Putin’s decisions.
Despite the visible impact of the strikes, footage of the attacks did not feature in the country’s evening news broadcasts, and no warnings were issued to the city’s residents. This lack of communication left many Moscow residents feeling anxious and unprotected.
In addition to Moscow, other Russian cities have also been targeted by recent Ukrainian strikes. These include attacks on an electronics plant in Voronezh, Russia, and power disruptions in Russian-held Crimea, with energy infrastructure in central and southern Russia also being targeted.
The ongoing attacks have instilled a sense of fear and uncertainty among affected communities, with reports of repeated drone strikes causing panic. Public sentiment towards Putin’s handling of the war has witnessed fluctuations, with some Kremlin allies criticizing the management of the conflict.
As the war continues, the pressure on Putin to address both internal discontent and the prolonged conflict is mounting. Experts warn of the potential for increased aggression from Putin in response to mounting challenges. Putin’s status as a wanted figure by the International Criminal Court for alleged war crimes further complicates the situation, with uncertainties surrounding his next moves.