On the night of 5 May, the Russian Federation declared an air alert in 18 regions at once due to a massive attack by missiles and drones. Sirens were sounded even in the Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug, which is located more than 2,000 kilometres from Ukraine. Fires were reported at strategic facilities as a result of the strikes.
Large-scale anxiety in Russia before the parade
On the night of 5 May, the Russian Federation declared an air alert in 18 regions. The sirens sounded not only in the regions bordering Ukraine, but also in remote areas such as the Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug, which is more than 2,000 kilometres from the Ukrainian border. According to Russian channels, the attack was one of the largest in recent times.
Drones were observed flying in a number of regions, and air defence forces worked to destroy targets in the air. Similar activity was recorded four days before holding a traditional parade in Moscow, This increases tensions between the local population and the Russian authorities.
The defence enterprise in Cheboksary was hit
In Cheboksary, according to Russian sources, a Ukrainian missile hit the VNIIR-Progress defence enterprise. After the strike, a fire broke out on the territory of the plant. This enterprise is known for the production of Kometa antennas, which are used to protect Russian drones from electronic warfare.
Damage to the military-industrial complex could significantly affect Russia's ability to defend its unmanned aerial vehicles. At the same time, such strikes demonstrate the vulnerability of even regions of Russia that are far from the front line.
Fire at an oil refinery in the Leningrad region
In addition to Cheboksary, drone attacks were reported in the Leningrad region. In the city of Kirishi, a large-scale fire broke out at one of Russia's largest oil refineries. This facility is of strategic importance for the country's fuel infrastructure.
A fire at such an enterprise could lead to disruptions in fuel supplies and negatively affect the logistics of military operations. The Russian authorities have not yet disclosed the extent of the damage, but footage from the scene is being posted online.
Why it matters
Mass night attack missiles and drones on the eve of the parade in Moscow indicates an increase in the ability of Ukrainian forces to strike at strategic targets in Russia at a considerable distance. This not only puts additional pressure on the Russian air defence system, but also demonstrates the vulnerability of the rear regions.
Damage to defence and energy facilities could affect Russia's ability to sustain its military campaign. The announcement of the alert in 18 regions underscores the scale of the threat and increases the sense of insecurity among the population.
The situation remains tense, and such incidents could have long-term consequences for Russia's internal stability and economy.
