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Ukraine launched heavy drone and missile attacks on Russian territory overnight, hours after a unilateral ceasefire declared by Moscow came into effect, Russian officials said on Friday.<\/p>\n
Yuri Slyusar, governor of the southern Rostov region, said debris from intercepted drones caused damage in several cities, including Rostov-on-Don, Taganrog and Bataisk. He said no casualties were reported, though a missile alert was issued across the region.<\/p>\n
According to Slyusar, several private homes and a truck were damaged in Rostov-on-Don, while a fire broke out in an administrative building.<\/p>\n
Ukrainian Telegram channels published videos purportedly showing large fires in the city continuing into the morning. One of the affected sites was reported to be a defence industry facility, though the reports could initially not be independently verified.<\/p>\n
Strikes were also reported in the city of Yaroslavl, about 300 kilometres north-east of Moscow. Russian outlet Astra said a local oil refinery appeared to be among the targets. Videos circulating online showed large fires, while regional governor Mikhail Yevrayev confirmed the attack but gave no details on damage.<\/p>\n
Air raid alerts were issued overnight across several Russian regions. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said Russian air defences had shot down 25 drones heading towards the capital. No damage was immediately reported.<\/p>\n
The ceasefire announced by Moscow took effect overnight and is intended to cover celebrations marking Victory Day on May 9, including the annual military parade in Moscow, commemorating the Soviet Union’s defeat of Nazi Germany.<\/p>\n
Ukraine responded with a unilateral truce beginning May 6, but later withdrew it after it said Russia had continued with its attacks, including one of its largest drone strikes so far in the conflict.<\/p>\n
Security has tightened in Moscow in light of Ukrainian drone attacks, which Kiev has expanded deep into Russian territory in recent months. The Kremlin also abruptly withdrew invitations to foreign journalists from the parade.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n