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Are Ukraine drones really exposing gaps in Russia's defense?

DW English · Jun 20, 2026, 7:54 PM · Also reported by 4 other sources

Key takeaways

  • Once seen as almost impenetrable, Russian air defenses are now under growing strain from Ukrainian drones.
  • After Ukrainian drones hit locations across Moscow on June 18 — the largest attack since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine — a debate was sparked about holes in the country's defense net.
  • A major oil refinery in Moscow, which supplies 40% of the region's fuel, was set alight and production appeared to have halted for several days after the attack.

Why this matters: an international story with cross-border implications worth tracking.

Once seen as almost impenetrable, Russian air defenses are now under growing strain from Ukrainian drones. A recent attack on Moscow has reignited debate over Russian vulnerabilities.

https://p.dw.com/p/5Fl ZTOn June 18, Ukraine launched the largest attack on Russia since the start of the war Image: Sefa Karacan/Anadolu/picture alliance Advertisement Ukrainian drones appear to be getting better at bypassing Russian air defenses to strike critical infrastructure.

After Ukrainian drones hit locations across Moscow on June 18 — the largest attack since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine — a debate was sparked about holes in the country's defense net.

Article preview — originally published by DW English. Full story at the source.
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