Russia claims destruction of over 560 Ukrainian drones in 24 hours

Russian air defence systems shot down 17 guided aerial bombs and 566 fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicles over the past 24 hours, Russia’s Defence Ministry said.

“Air defence systems destroyed 17 guided aerial bombs and 566 fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicles,” the ministry said in a statement.

Russia's latest interception reflects the escalating back-and-forth in the drone war that has intensified throughout 2026.

In recent weeks, Kyiv has stepped up strikes on energy facilities and military assets deep inside Russia, aiming to disrupt supply lines and reduce revenue funding the war effort.

High-profile incidents include multiple drone waves reaching St. Petersburg, where attacks damaged an oil terminal and naval infrastructure in Kronstadt during Russia’s major economic forum. 

Ukrainian forces have also hit refineries and depots in regions like Krasnodar and Tatarstan, causing fires and temporary production halts that add pressure on Russia’s fuel supplies.

By Jeyhun Aghazada