Ukrainian drone attacks disrupted operations at several Moscow airports overnight, forcing closures just hours before Chinese President Xi Jinping’s scheduled arrival in the Russian capital, Reuters reported on Wednesday.
According to Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, at least 14 drones were intercepted and destroyed by Russian air defence systems between late Tuesday night and early Wednesday morning.
The strikes marked the third consecutive day of aerial attacks on Moscow, raising security concerns ahead of Russia’s annual Victory Day celebrations.
Flight operations at major airports were halted for much of the night. National carrier Aeroflot confirmed schedule adjustments were being made to manage the disruption.
President Xi is among 29 world leaders expected in Moscow this week for commemorations of the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany in World War II.
Military units from 13 countries, including China, are set to participate in a parade on May 9, a date revered in Russia as a symbol of national pride and sacrifice.
Xi’s four-day state visit is anticipated to further solidify the strategic partnership between China and Russia, with several agreements expected to be signed.
The Chinese president’s presence offers a diplomatic boost for Russian President Vladimir Putin amid continued tensions with Western nations.
The Soviet Union, which lost an estimated 27 million people during World War II, played a crucial role in the defeat of Nazi Germany.
Putin has repeatedly emphasised the importance of preserving this legacy in the face of what he describes as Western attempts to diminish Russia’s historical contribution.
