Moscow, November 10: Russia claimed on Sunday that its air defense forces intercepted and destroyed 247 Ukrainian drones in a single night, marking one of the most extensive aerial defense operations since the start of the conflict. President Vladimir Putin hailed the move as evidence of Russia’s “superior defense capabilities” and a decisive counterstrike amid intensifying hostilities on the eastern front.
The Russian Defense Ministry said the drones were launched across multiple regions, including Crimea, Bryansk, and Belgorod, and that most were neutralized before reaching key infrastructure targets. State media described the large-scale assault as part of Kyiv’s ongoing attempts to disrupt Russian logistics and military supply chains.
Putin, addressing security officials, praised the armed forces for their “swift and coordinated response,” claiming that Ukraine’s latest offensive “failed completely.” He added that Russia’s air defense network has achieved “record interception efficiency,” reinforcing Moscow’s strategic upper hand.
The development comes as U.S. military aid to Ukraine faces delays due to the ongoing government shutdown, hampering Kyiv’s access to critical weapon supplies and ammunition. Western analysts say the timing could embolden Moscow to intensify pressure before Washington resumes full logistical support.
Ukraine has yet to formally comment on Moscow’s latest claims, though independent verification remains limited. International observers note that both sides have increasingly turned to drone warfare, reflecting a technological and tactical shift in the prolonged conflict.
