Vladimir Putin's aircraft diverted during Moscow drone alert

On Friday, October 9, reports indicated that an Il-96 aircraft believed to be carrying Russian President Vladimir Putin was diverted to Saint Petersburg due to landing difficulties. The aircraft, part of a three-plane delegation returning from Turkmenistan, was forced to perform additional maneuvers and circle Vnukovo Airport before the diversion.

The incident occurred amid an air raid alert in Moscow, triggered by the reported presence of Ukrainian drones in the area. The drone alert caused significant disruptions to air traffic, leading to the closure of several airports and forcing various flights to land at alternative locations.