Following significant Ukrainian drone strikes, Russian officials report that at least 60,000 air passengers are stranded across various airports. The incident has caused widespread flight cancellations and raised tensions amid ongoing conflict and diplomatic negotiations between Russia and Ukraine.
Ukrainian Drone Attacks Leave Over 60,000 Passengers Stranded in Russia
Ukrainian Drone Attacks Leave Over 60,000 Passengers Stranded in Russia
Major disruptions at Russian airports result from a large-scale Ukrainian drone assault, complicating travel plans for thousands.
In a dramatic escalation of hostilities, at least 60,000 air travelers have found themselves stranded in airports across Russia due to a large-scale Ukrainian drone attack. Reports indicate that around 350 flights have been impacted since the attacks commenced on Tuesday evening, affecting major cities including Moscow, St Petersburg, and Sochi, as well as several others.
Russian authorities, claiming to have destroyed 524 Ukrainian drones in just 24 hours, have not reported any casualties from the attack. Yet, the situation remains tense as Ukraine also suffered from a Russian drone and missile strike that claimed two lives in Kyiv. This barrage of strikes coincided with what Russia terms a self-declared three-day ceasefire, set to commence Wednesday night, ahead of a World War Two victory parade slated for May 9.
Ukraine has dismissed the Russian ceasefire proposition as merely a "theatrical play," advocating instead for an unconditional 30-day ceasefire, a sentiment echoed by its European and American allies. The stark contrast in positions has been highlighted by US Vice-President JD Vance, who expressed skepticism about the feasibility of Russian negotiations, urging for a dialogue between Russia and Ukraine.
Disruptions have particularly hit Moscow's main airports, with a staggering 110 flights canceled and 19 drones reportedly shot down around the city. Airlines at St Petersburg's Pulkovo airport also faced operational delays, with passengers enduring long wait times. Flights across other Russian cities, including Sochi, Kazan, and Kazan, have also experienced interruptions.
The disruptions come as high-profile global leaders prepare to attend the military parade commemorating the 80th anniversary of the victory over Nazi Germany. Notably, Chinese President Xi Jinping is set to arrive in Moscow for the celebrations, although his arrival has been marred by logistical challenges, including emergency landings and flight reroutes due to the ongoing attacks.
While Russian officials anticipate attendance from 27 global leaders, various nations like Lithuania and Latvia have denied flight permissions, showcasing mounting tensions within the region. Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico reported similar challenges in securing airspace rights, citing Estonia's refusal.
As both nations grapple with the unfolding conflict, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has demanded greater pressure be applied to Russia, particularly in light of the recent missile attacks that have caused civilian casualties. He emphasized that Ukraine cannot guarantee the safety of individuals traveling to Moscow for the parade and warned that provocations may be orchestrated by the Kremlin during the commemorative events.
The volatility surrounding the ongoing war highlights the broader geopolitical stakes as both sides continue to assert their narratives while trying to garner international support. As Russia celebrates its historical victories, Ukraine endeavors to counter perceived attempts at propaganda and reshape the discourse surrounding the conflict, calling out what they label the occupation and war crimes committed by Russia.
Russian authorities, claiming to have destroyed 524 Ukrainian drones in just 24 hours, have not reported any casualties from the attack. Yet, the situation remains tense as Ukraine also suffered from a Russian drone and missile strike that claimed two lives in Kyiv. This barrage of strikes coincided with what Russia terms a self-declared three-day ceasefire, set to commence Wednesday night, ahead of a World War Two victory parade slated for May 9.
Ukraine has dismissed the Russian ceasefire proposition as merely a "theatrical play," advocating instead for an unconditional 30-day ceasefire, a sentiment echoed by its European and American allies. The stark contrast in positions has been highlighted by US Vice-President JD Vance, who expressed skepticism about the feasibility of Russian negotiations, urging for a dialogue between Russia and Ukraine.
Disruptions have particularly hit Moscow's main airports, with a staggering 110 flights canceled and 19 drones reportedly shot down around the city. Airlines at St Petersburg's Pulkovo airport also faced operational delays, with passengers enduring long wait times. Flights across other Russian cities, including Sochi, Kazan, and Kazan, have also experienced interruptions.
The disruptions come as high-profile global leaders prepare to attend the military parade commemorating the 80th anniversary of the victory over Nazi Germany. Notably, Chinese President Xi Jinping is set to arrive in Moscow for the celebrations, although his arrival has been marred by logistical challenges, including emergency landings and flight reroutes due to the ongoing attacks.
While Russian officials anticipate attendance from 27 global leaders, various nations like Lithuania and Latvia have denied flight permissions, showcasing mounting tensions within the region. Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico reported similar challenges in securing airspace rights, citing Estonia's refusal.
As both nations grapple with the unfolding conflict, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has demanded greater pressure be applied to Russia, particularly in light of the recent missile attacks that have caused civilian casualties. He emphasized that Ukraine cannot guarantee the safety of individuals traveling to Moscow for the parade and warned that provocations may be orchestrated by the Kremlin during the commemorative events.
The volatility surrounding the ongoing war highlights the broader geopolitical stakes as both sides continue to assert their narratives while trying to garner international support. As Russia celebrates its historical victories, Ukraine endeavors to counter perceived attempts at propaganda and reshape the discourse surrounding the conflict, calling out what they label the occupation and war crimes committed by Russia.
