Ukraine Launches Massive Drone Attack on Moscow During Final Day of Russian Election

Ukraine carried out what Moscow’s mayor described as its largest ever drone attack on the Russian capital Sunday, coinciding with the final day of Russia’s parliamentary election. Local authorities reported two deaths in the surrounding Moscow region, along with damage to a previously targeted oil refinery, though the full extent remained unclear.

According to Moscow’s mayor, more than 1,600 drones were shot down across Russian territory since the previous day, with roughly 450 aimed at Moscow itself. One drone struck a residential building, though no fatalities were reported at that location. Officials characterized the attack as a deliberate attempt to disrupt the election, which they said ultimately failed.

Election Expected to Reaffirm Ruling Party’s Dominance

The parliamentary vote, the first since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine began in 2022, is widely expected to result in the ruling United Russia party maintaining firm control. Critics say the political system allows little genuine dissent, with most anti-war candidates barred from participating.

Limited Opposition Faces Pressure

Members of a smaller liberal party that did appear on the ballot said they feared for their safety after authorities handed lengthy prison sentences to senior party figures over previous comments about the conflict. In a symbolic protest, one opposition leader spoiled his ballot with a message calling for peace.

Broader Tensions Surround the Vote

Russian officials reported a cyberattack targeting Moscow’s online voting system, while Ukrainian officials have dismissed the election entirely, having suspended their own elections under martial law. Putin separately accused Ukraine of election interference, citing a strike that killed a local official in a Russian-controlled region of Ukraine.

Despite the predictable outcome, some analysts suggest economic strain from the prolonged war could push some voters toward smaller, Kremlin-tolerated opposition parties. Initial election results are expected to begin emerging later Sunday, with fuller results anticipated Monday.