In a significant escalation of long-range aerial operations, Ukrainian forces launched a series of overnight drone attacks targeting multiple regions within Russia, including the Moscow region. The strikes, which occurred leading up to Sunday, May 17, 2026, resulted in at least three fatalities and multiple injuries.
Casualties in Khimki and Mytishchi
Regional Governor Andrei Vorobyov confirmed that the attacks struck the cities of Khimki and Mytishchi. In Khimki, a woman was killed when an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) struck a private residence, with another person reported trapped under the rubble. In the village of Pogorelki, located in Mytishchi, two men lost their lives after drone debris hit a building currently under construction.
Strike on Moscow Refinery
A major target of the overnight campaign was the Moscow Refinery. While the facility's operations have not been disrupted, the attack caused significant local damage. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin reported that 12 people were wounded, including several construction workers, and four residential buildings sustained damage.
Air Defense Response
The scale of the incursions was extensive. Mayor Sobyanin stated that air defense forces shot down 120 Ukrainian drones over Moscow within a 24-hour period. On a national scale, Russia's defense ministry reported that a total of 556 drones were downed across the country throughout the night and into the morning.
These events follow several days of Russian missile and drone strikes on Ukraine, marking a continuing cycle of intensified long-range engagements between the two forces.
Reference(s):
3 killed in overnight drone attacks on Moscow region, oil refinery hit
cgtn.com
