Ukrainian drones trigger first-ever drone alert in Russia’s Novosibirsk region

A “drone danger” alert was issued for the first time in Russia’s Novosibirsk region on the evening of July 6 amid concerns over a possible Ukrainian drone threat.

Residents received warnings through Russia's emergency warning system (RSChS), urging them to remain indoors and seek shelter in rooms without windows.

According to Novosibirsk Region Governor Andrey Travnikov, the alert was declared “based on an analysis of the situation in a neighbouring region and reports from citizens who allegedly saw UAVs.”

Earlier the same day, the Omsk Oil Refinery came under attack for the first time since the start of the war. The facility, Russia’s largest refinery, had previously not been struck by Ukrainian drones.

Following an inspection, authorities said that “no dangerous aircraft” had been detected over the Novosibirsk region. The alert was lifted around midnight.

Despite this, Russia’s aviation authority, Rosaviatsiya, announced the temporary closure of Tolmachevo Airport to ensure flight safety. Restrictions on arrivals and departures remained in place for about 30 minutes.

By Jeyhun Aghazada