Russia Claims Major Drone Attack in Ukraine Kills Four

Russia said on Friday, November 13, 2026, that its air defence systems had shot down 1,198 Ukrainian drones overnight. The reported attack was one of the largest groups of drones launched by Ukraine and resulted in at least four deaths, according to Russian officials.

The incident came a day after diplomatic efforts to find a way to end the war continued in Moscow. The conflict, which began in February 2022, is approaching its fifth year. On Thursday, November 12, US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner held several hours of talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin. They later travelled to Dublin to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Russia’s Defence Ministry said its air defence systems intercepted and destroyed 1,198 drones across more than 15 regions. Local officials reported that four people working in an industrial area in the southern Volgograd region were killed. The area is located near an oil refinery and a chemical factory.

The latest drone attack followed another major incident on Thursday, when Russia launched waves of explosive drones towards Kyiv while Putin was meeting US negotiators. The attack reportedly killed at least one person and added to concerns over the continuing conflict.

Ukraine has increased its drone attacks on Russia’s energy sector over the past 18 months. These operations are aimed at reducing Russia’s energy revenues and limiting the financial resources available to support its military campaign.

Meanwhile, Ukraine has accused Russia of repeatedly targeting its electricity infrastructure through drone attacks. These strikes have left many people without power as winter approaches and temperatures begin to fall.

The continued attacks on energy facilities and major cities highlight the ongoing impact of the war on both countries. Despite diplomatic discussions involving the United States, Russia and Ukraine, the fighting and drone strikes continue.