01 Aug 2023 | 09:35 AM UTC
Russia: Drone strikes likely to continue in Moscow, through early Aug. /update 1
Drone strikes likely in Moscow, Russia, through early Aug. Heightened security, disruptions likely.
Event
Drone strikes likely to continue in Moscow in coming days, following recent attacks. As of Aug. 1, emergency personnel are responding to an incident at a non-residential building on the Presnenskaya embankment. Authorities have temporarily restricted the air space around Moscow following the incident; flight delays at Vnukovo International Airport (VKO) are likely. There are no reports of casualties or major damage based on preliminary information.
In recent days, local sources also reported explosions in Moscow on July 24 and July 31. Russian authorities accuse Ukrainian forces of launching the attacks. The explosions were reported in Moscow's Citi district, where the IQ Quarter building was struck on July 31 and Aug. 1. The building houses Russia's Ministry of Digital Development, Ministry of Industry and Trade, and Ministry of Economic Development. The Russian defense ministry claims that surface-to-air missiles destroyed a number of other drones.
Further strikes are likely in the coming days. Heightened security and transport and business disruptions will likely to continue. Air raid warnings are possible.
Context
Previous strikes in the Moscow region were reported in early May, when a drone struck the roof of the Kremlin, in late May, and in early July. It is not known whether these separate incidents are coordinated.
Advice
Follow local travel and security advice. Prepare for possible further drone strikes: seek shelter if there are reports of potential attacks in the area. Stay away from windows and exterior walls.
