A luxury high-rise building in western Moscow was struck by a Ukrainian drone, causing extensive damage and scattering debris in the vicinity, as confirmed by city authorities and reports from Russian media outlets.
The incident has triggered heightened concerns among officials, including Vladimir Putin, ahead of the upcoming annual military Victory Day Parade on Red Square, where thousands of Russian troops will participate to commemorate the end of World War II.
Reports suggest that Moscow is on edge amid fears of a potential attack by Ukraine, particularly as preparations are underway for the parade, during which Putin is scheduled to deliver a crucial speech. The drone struck the 36th floor of the Mosfilmovskaya tower, situated in an area known as ‘Russia’s Hollywood’, resulting in significant destruction during the early hours of the morning.
The building is located less than four miles from the Kremlin, with unverified accounts indicating that it may house senior members of Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR). Additionally, the high-rise is in close proximity to an exclusive mansion complex where key figures such as Putin’s security council secretary and former Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, and the chief of the Russian armed forces’ general staff, Gen. Valery Gerasimov, are believed to have heavily guarded residences.
Security measures have been heightened in anticipation of Putin’s upcoming event, with snipers and machine gunners reportedly stationed on the towers and walls of the Kremlin overlooking Red Square. Armored vehicles equipped with anti-drone weaponry are being deployed around the Kremlin, and special units armed with rifles and specialized equipment have been stationed at various vantage points.
In response to the escalating tensions, armed checkpoints have been established at the entrances to the Russian capital. While Moscow has largely remained unaffected by Ukrainian attacks in recent times, there are growing concerns that the city may face heightened risks in the coming days.
Putin has suggested a temporary ceasefire for the parade, but Ukraine is pushing for a longer truce along with peace negotiations. As of now, no official ceasefire agreement is in place. Dmitry Peskov, Putin’s spokesperson, emphasized the global anticipation surrounding Putin’s upcoming Victory Day speech, describing it as “very important.”
