ISLAMABAD: Russian authorities reported at least four people killed and over a dozen injured after Ukraine unleashed one of its biggest drone barrages on Moscow and surrounding regions overnight.

The attack marked the largest assault on the Russian capital in more than a year, with air defences intercepting dozens of drones but several breaking through to cause casualties and damage.

Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin confirmed that Russian forces destroyed 81 drones heading towards the capital since midnight. State media described the scale as unprecedented in recent months.

Moscow regional Governor Andrei Vorobyov reported three deaths in the outskirts. A woman died when a drone struck her home in Khimki, north of Moscow. Two men were killed in the village of Pogorelki, about 10 kilometres from the capital.

Rescue teams worked through debris as emergency services responded to multiple sites. At least 12 people suffered injuries, many near Moscow’s oil refinery area where falling debris sparked fires.

India’s Embassy in Moscow confirmed one Indian worker lost his life in the Moscow region. Three other Indian nationals sustained injuries and received treatment at local hospitals. Embassy officials reached the site and extended assistance to the affected families.

The Indian worker’s death has drawn concern among South Asian communities in Russia. Thousands of Indian students and professionals live and work in the Moscow area, many employed in construction, manufacturing and services sectors.

Ukrainian forces reportedly targeted key infrastructure including oil facilities, pumping stations and industrial zones. Russian officials said the core operations at the Moscow refinery remained intact despite the strikes.

This assault follows intense Russian strikes on Ukrainian cities earlier in the week. Those attacks killed at least 25 people in Kyiv and surrounding areas, according to Ukrainian officials.

Military analysts noted the timing appears linked to ongoing battlefield dynamics. Ukraine has increasingly relied on long-range drone strikes to pressure Russian rear areas as the conflict stretches into its fourth year.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has not issued an immediate personal statement. Kremlin sources indicated a strong response is expected in the coming days.

Defence Ministry officials in Moscow vowed symmetric retaliation against Ukrainian targets. They labelled the drone campaign a terrorist act aimed at civilian areas.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy defended the operation as justified self-defence. He described the strikes as precise long-range actions conducted more than 500 kilometres inside Russian territory.

The barrage reportedly involved over 500 drones across multiple Russian regions, according to some Russian claims. Ukrainian sources have not disclosed exact numbers or targets.

Sheremetyevo International Airport near Moscow faced temporary disruptions. Flights experienced delays amid heightened security measures across the capital region.

Local residents reported hearing explosions and seeing air defence systems lighting up the night sky. Videos circulating on social media showed flashes and smoke rising from several locations.

This incident highlights growing risks for foreign workers in Russia. Indian diplomatic missions have advised nationals to remain vigilant and avoid non-essential travel near potential military sites.

The deaths come at a sensitive time for India-Russia relations. Both countries maintain strong historical ties in defence, energy and trade despite global pressures over the Ukraine conflict.

Indian officials continue monitoring the situation closely. The embassy is coordinating with Russian authorities for the safe return of remains and support for injured citizens.

Military observers point to evolving drone warfare tactics. Both sides now deploy large swarms of low-cost unmanned aerial vehicles to overwhelm sophisticated air defence networks.

Russia claims its systems intercepted the majority of incoming threats. Yet the confirmed breaches and casualties demonstrate limitations in full protection of vast territories.

Civilian impact remains a major concern. International humanitarian groups have repeatedly called for restraint to protect non-combatants on both sides of the border.

The attack adds fresh urgency to stalled peace efforts. Multiple rounds of talks in recent months have failed to produce breakthroughs as both Kyiv and Moscow dig in for prolonged fighting.

Economic ripples could emerge if Russian energy infrastructure faces sustained pressure. Global oil markets watched developments closely amid existing supply concerns.

As rescue operations continue, Russian authorities promised thorough investigation into the attack’s origins and planning.

For Indian communities abroad, the tragedy serves as a stark reminder of conflict spillover effects far from active frontlines. Families back home await updates on loved ones working in Russia.

The coming hours are expected to bring more details on damage assessment and potential escalation. Both capitals remain on high alert as tensions surge once again.

This latest escalation underscores the conflict’s expanding reach and its human cost on civilians and foreign nationals caught in the crossfire.