Ukrainian Drones Kill 4 in Khimki, Bringing War to Moscow's Suburbs
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · May 23
Ukrainian Drones Kill 4 in Khimki, Bringing War to Moscow's Suburbs
6 articles · Updated · The New York Times · May 23
Four people were killed and at least 15 wounded after a Ukrainian drone hit the top floor of a high-rise in Khimki, a Moscow suburb, on Sunday.
Residents said the strike made the war suddenly tangible in the capital region, which had largely been shielded from direct violence despite more than four years of fighting.
Ukraine has expanded long-range drone and cruise missile attacks deep into Russia—up to 1,000 miles—as Kyiv responds to Russia's repeated strikes on Ukrainian cities and infrastructure.
The attack underscores how Ukraine is pushing the conflict closer to the Kremlin's power center, raising pressure on Russians who had mostly experienced the war from afar.
As Ukraine’s drones bypass defenses, is Russia's vast territory now its greatest weakness?
With Moscow under fire, is Putin's social contract with the Russian people finally breaking?
Deep Strikes on Moscow: Ukraine’s May 2026 Drone Offensive and Its Ripple Effects on Russia
Overview
On May 16-17, 2026, Ukraine launched its largest drone strike on Moscow and nearby regions, causing major disruptions at Sheremetyevo and Vnukovo airports, where hundreds of flights were delayed or canceled. These widespread interruptions had immediate logistical and economic impacts on Moscow’s transportation network. The attack also reportedly targeted the Solnechnogorskaya oil products loading station in Moscow Oblast, suggesting an effort to damage Russia’s energy infrastructure. This coordinated and large-scale operation highlights Ukraine’s growing ability to strike deep into Russian territory, affecting both critical infrastructure and daily life in the capital region.