KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — Ukraine says a long-range drone struck a Russian military plant nearly 800 miles from its border, killing three people and injuring 35 in the city of Izhevsk. The drone hit the Kupol Electromechanical Plant, which makes air defense systems and drones for Russia's military. Ukrainian officials said at least two direct hits were recorded on the facility.
The attack highlights Ukraine’s push to boost its own drone production, with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy calling drones — especially interceptors and long-range strike models — a top priority. He warned that Russia is investing heavily in its unmanned arsenal and stepping up attacks. In June, Russia launched a record 5,438 drones at Ukraine, according to data collected by the Associated Press.
How Is Russia Responding to Ukraine's Drone Attacks?
Ukraine has been increasingly targeting sites deep inside Russia, hitting plants, storage facilities, and logistics hubs. Last year, a Ukrainian drone struck an early-warning radar 1,120 miles away in Orsk. Meanwhile, Russia’s Defense Ministry said it downed 60 Ukrainian drones overnight in several regions, including Crimea and Rostov, while Russian Shahed drones struck the southern Ukrainian city of Zaporizhzhia, cutting power to more than 1,600 homes.
Amid stalled peace talks, both countries are racing to strengthen their arsenals. U.S. special envoy Keith Kellogg urged an immediate ceasefire and negotiations, criticizing Russia for striking civilian targets. European military aid to Ukraine has now surpassed that of the United States, totaling €72 billion compared to €65 billion from the U.S. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin and French President Emmanuel Macron spoke for the first time in nearly three years, discussing the Ukraine war and calling for a ceasefire, though Moscow insisted any settlement must reflect what it calls “new territorial realities.”