Russian forces intercept over 50 drones in overnight attacks on Western regions

Russian air defence forces intercepted 54 drones in a series of coordinated attacks over the western regions of the country during the night of September 17 to 18, according to the country’s Defence Ministry.

Among the interceptions, 27 UAVs were shot down over the Kursk region, 16 over Bryansk, seven over Smolensk, three over Belgorod, and one over Oryol, Caliber.Az reports, citing Russian media.

Despite the large number of drones, no casualties or civilian injuries were reported in Bryansk, Smolensk, or Kursk.

In Tver, debris from a downed drone caused a fire, prompting local authorities to partially evacuate the population. 

Local governor Igor Rudenya said emergencies services in the town of Toropets were trying to "localise" the blaze caused by falling drone wreckage. He did not say whether there were any casualties.

Toropets lies about 380km (236 miles) northwest of Russia's capital Moscow, and some 470km north of the border with Ukraine.

On September 18 morning, Toropets authorities said buses had already been prepared for the evacuation.

They also claimed that the situation was "under control" in the town of about 13,000 residents.