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Russia says Ukraine launched a major drone attack after Moscow shunned ceasefire offer
On May 7, 2026, Russia reported a large Ukrainian drone attack, claiming 347 drones were shot down overnight across more than 20 regions, including Moscow. Ukraine said its defenses shot down 92 of 102 drones, as both sides announced ceasefire gestures tied to Victory Day week, and security measures in Russia intensified ahead of the holiday.
Why It Matters
The incident underscores heightened hostilities around Russia's Victory Day celebrations and shows a pattern of large-scale drone warfare between Russia and Ukraine, with security steps impacting everyday life in Moscow.
Timeline
12 Events
Moscow Victory Day parade to omit tanks and missiles
May 7, 2026
In a move ahead of Victory Day, Moscow's parade will not feature the usual tanks, missiles and other military equipment for the first time in nearly two decades.
Moscow shut down mobile internet and text messaging on Victory Day
May 7, 2026
State media reported that all mobile internet access and text messaging in Moscow would be shut down on May 9, as a security measure.
Defense Ministry cites current operational situation; military equipment excluded from Victory Day parade
May 7, 2026
The Defence Ministry cited the current operational situation as a reason to exclude military equipment from the Moscow Victory Day parade.
Web restrictions announced; 'white list' websites to remain accessible
May 7, 2026
Authorities said restrictions would include websites on the government 'white list', while home internet and Wi-Fi would remain unaffected.
Peskov cites complex operational situation; more security measures planned
May 7, 2026
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said additional security measures were being taken due to the 'rather complex operational situation'.
Zelenskyy says attacks have been ceaseless; targets include critical infrastructure
May 7, 2026
Zelenskyy stated that Russia's attacks have been ceaseless, hitting civilian areas including power grids and rail networks.
Kharkiv drone strike injures nine, including three children
May 7, 2026
In Kharkiv, a drone strike wounded nine people, including three children.
Ukraine reports 92 of 102 drones shot down overnight
May 7, 2026
Ukraine said its air defences shot down 92 of the 102 drones launched by Russia overnight.
Russia reports 347 Ukrainian drones shot down overnight
May 7, 2026
Russia's Defence Ministry said 347 Ukrainian drones were shot down overnight over more than 20 regions, including Moscow.
Zelenskyy says Moscow disregarded goodwill gesture
May 6, 2026
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Moscow disregarded Kyiv's ceasefire gesture in his regular address, signaling continued non-suspension of activity.
Ukraine suspends hostilities from midnight (May 5, 2026)
May 5, 2026
Ukraine announced a suspension of hostilities from midnight on Tuesday, May 5, 2026.
March 2026: Ukraine launches its largest aerial attack since the invasion
March 2026
Ukraine conducted its largest aerial attack since Russia's invasion in March 2026, launching 389 drones.