Camilla Jessen
Explosions ripped through Russian cities.
Southern Russia saw a night of explosions as multiple drone attacks hit critical infrastructure in the Rostov region, including railways and a major power station.
Explosions Reported Across Rostov
A wave of drone strikes hit Russia’s Rostov region overnight on July 23, with explosions reported across several cities, including Novocherkassk and Shakhty.
Local news outlets also reported that surrounding districts — Miasnikovsky, Rodionovo-Nesvetay, and Aksai — were impacted by the attacks.
Attacks Confirmed
Rostov Governor Yuri Slyusar confirmed the attacks in an early morning statement.
However, Russian officials have so far provided limited details on the damage caused.
Key Infrastructure Targeted
According to reports from the Astra Telegram channel and open-source intelligence (OSINT) groups, the local railway in Novocherkassk was among the sites hit.
Additional strikes reportedly targeted the Novocherkassk DRES, a major electric power station, and a Rostelecom facility, potentially disrupting communications and energy supply in the region.
Unverified Claims
These claims have not been independently verified, but explosions heard across the region have been widely documented on social media and local channels.
Drone Defenses Intercepted Attacks
In response, the Russian Ministry of Defense stated that 33 drones were intercepted and destroyed across Russian airspace during the night.
The Ministry did not specify how many drones successfully struck their targets.
Ukraine has not officially commented on the reported strikes, in keeping with its policy of strategic ambiguity regarding cross-border drone operations.
Pattern of Deep Strikes Expands
This latest wave of drone activity follows earlier attacks in July, when Ukrainian drones allegedly struck Russia’s Kronstadt drone manufacturing plant near Moscow, and damaged the Azov Optical-Mechanical Plant in the Rostov region.
That facility is known for producing optical and electronic systems for the Russian military and was reportedly hit by fixed-wing drones, causing significant explosions and structural damage.
