Russian defence ministry says air defences down hundreds of Ukrainian drones

The Russian defence ministry reported a series of air‑defence engagements against Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles in early July 2026. On the night of 7‑8 July, Russian systems intercepted and destroyed 415 drones over a range of regions including Belgorod, Bryansk, Volgograd, Kursk, Crimea and the Black Sea area. A statement on 9‑10 July added that 376 drones were downed over the same and additional provinces such as Kaluga, Leningrad and Novgorod.

Separately, the ministry said that in a 24‑hour period ending 8 July its forces shot down 903 drones and intercepted eight guided air‑bombs. It also claimed to have neutralised about 1,450 Ukrainian personnel, destroyed ten armored fighting vehicles, and hit logistical, fuel, energy and transport facilities used by Ukrainian forces. In a related report on 9 July, Russian officials said roughly 1,400 militants were rendered ineffective in Ukraine during the latest operations.

These figures reflect ongoing Russian claims of extensive defensive success in the broader conflict with Ukraine.