Russia’s Defense Ministry reported on Monday that its air defense systems successfully intercepted and destroyed 71 Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) overnight across multiple regions of the country.

According to the ministry, the largest number of drones—29—were neutralized over Bryansk, followed by 7 in Kursk, 5 in Lipetsk, and 5 in Smolensk. Additional interceptions occurred over Oryol, Tver, and Samara (4 UAVs), Crimea (3 UAVs), and one each in Kaluga, Rostov, and Tula regions. The ministry also confirmed that 7 drones were shot down over the Black Sea.

In a statement, Russian officials emphasized that their air defense systems were fully operational and that no details regarding casualties or material damage from the drone attacks were available.

This surge in UAV activity coincides with ongoing tensions in the region, as Ukraine has increasingly deployed drones in reconnaissance and tactical operations. The Russian Defense Ministry’s report comes amid repeated warnings from Moscow about what it describes as provocations near its borders.

The overnight interceptions reflect Russia’s continued focus on countering aerial threats and maintaining control over its airspace. Analysts note that while the specific impact of these drones remains unclear, the operations demonstrate the scale and capability of Russian air defense systems in responding to modern UAV threats.

Ukraine has not released an official comment regarding the overnight drone losses. (ILKHA)