Baghdad: The Russian Defense Ministry announced the downing of 42 Ukrainian drones last night in the country’s southwestern provinces. The Ministry said in a statement: “Last night, operational air defense systems intercepted and destroyed 42 Ukrainian drones.” Fifteen drones were shot down over Rostov Oblast, 12 over Belgorod Oblast, 10 over Volgograd Oblast, two over Crimea, and one over Kaluga, Kursk, and Smolensk Oblasts.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the coordinated effort by Russian defense systems highlights ongoing tensions in the region, with multiple provinces reporting drone interceptions. The Ministry did not provide further details on the operations or the impact of the drone downings on ongoing military activities. The incident underscores the strategic importance of air defense systems in the region’s military dynamics.