Russia: flames engulf buildings after Ukrainian drone attack in Voronezh region
Russian authorities reported significant damage after Ukrainian drone strikes hit the Voronezh region, with flames engulfing buildings and at least three people killed.
Videos shared on Russian social media captured dramatic scenes of flames rising from apartment blocks and the 25-storey Galereya Chizhova business center, with thick black smoke spreading across neighborhoods. The attack also damaged private homes, commercial buildings, residential properties with shattered windows, and at least ten cars in a parking lot. Residents were seen examining the wreckage where drone engine fragments were discovered.
Casualties and damage
Governor Alexander Gusev confirmed three fatalities from the drone attack. Most injuries occurred when debris struck the Anapa-Moscow train near Somovo station, injuring five passengers, two seriously. Russian Railways suspended rail traffic through the city. The attack also sparked fires at industrial plants including the Voronezhsintezkauchuk rubber works and VASO aircraft factory, as well as two dacha settlements, a school sports ground, a garage cooperative, and an apartment building.
Air defences brought down 113 drones over the region, more than 70 of them directly above the city.
Official claims
Russia's defense ministry claimed to have intercepted 290 drones across the country. The Novovoronezh nuclear plant reported normal operations despite the nearby attacks. Independent monitors could not confirm whether explosions near apartment buildings resulted from direct hits or falling debris, a distinction left open in the governor's account. A strike on Voronezh three days earlier targeted the Baltimor military airfield.
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