In an unexpected turn of events, drone attacks within Russian territory have taken a new direction with a recent strike in the city of Pskov, situated more than 600 kilometers north of the Ukrainian border. The attack, which occurred on Wednesday night, resulted in damage to military aircraft and has prompted speculation about its origin and potential implications. Pskov’s proximity to the borders of Estonia and Latvia adds complexity to the situation.

While the source of the drones remains uncertain, the possibility that they might have been launched from the territory of a North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) member state has captured attention. Such a development would mark an unprecedented occurrence and potentially strain international relations. Another intriguing angle is the speculation that the drones could have been launched from Estonia or Latvia without the knowledge of local authorities, raising questions about border security and surveillance.

Approximately 20 drones were reportedly involved in the attack, causing damage to at least four Il-76 military transport aircraft, according to reports from Russian media, notably the state-run TASS news agency. Unverified sources even suggest that the number of damaged aircraft could be higher, potentially reaching six. The incident prompted a swift response from local authorities and emergency services, with around 65 firefighters and over 20 firefighting units dispatched to the scene. Mikhail Vedernikov, the Governor of the Pskov Region, provided preliminary information indicating no casualties and a commitment to releasing more comprehensive details following a crisis staff meeting.

The Pskov incident fits into a broader pattern of drone-related events in Russia that occurred on the same night. Reports indicate that drone shootdowns were recorded in various regions including Bryansk, Oryol, Ryazan, and Kaluga. Additionally, air defenses successfully repelled an air raid on a base of the Russian Black Sea Fleet in Sevastopol.

It’s worth noting that while the Pskov attack is distinct, it’s not the first time such drone-related incidents have taken place in the region since the onset of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. In May, an explosion damaged an oil pipeline building near the Belarusian border, with Governor Vedernikov mentioning a drone attack involving two drones during that instance.

The incident in Pskov underscores the evolving landscape of unconventional warfare and highlights the challenges posed by emerging technologies. As investigations continue and more details emerge, the incident’s implications on international relations, regional security dynamics, and the use of drones as tools of aggression will undoubtedly come into sharper focus.

Article by Prague Forum