Explosives-laden drones struck residential buildings in Kazan, Russia, on Saturday (21 December), igniting fires and forcing evacuations. The attack resembled the dramatic visuals of 9/11, as drones crashed into high-rise structures, causing significant damage. Emergency services quickly responded to the scene, and while no casualties were reported, residents were temporarily displaced as authorities assessed the situation.
The Kazan airport suspended flights temporarily in response to the attack, highlighting its widespread impact. Russia’s aviation watchdog also introduced restrictions at airports in Izhevsk and Saratov, although these were later lifted. Mass events in the city were canceled for the weekend, and temporary accommodations were arranged for those evacuated from affected areas.
Russian officials reported three waves of drone strikes occurring between 7:40 a.m. and 9:20 a.m. (local time). Of the nine drones involved, Russia managed to intercept one, while the others caused damage. This attack came amidst the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, now approaching its third year, with escalating tensions and increasing drone activities.
Unverified footage showed an aerial object crashing into a high-rise, producing a fireball. The attack underscores the growing threat of drone warfare and its potential to disrupt civilian life. Kazan, the capital of Tatarstan, is located about 500 miles east of Moscow, and its resilience will be tested as the city recovers from the incident.
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