Russia's defense ministry reported that its air defense forces successfully intercepted and destroyed 45 drones launched by Ukraine overnight. These drones were allegedly targeting several regions, including Moscow.

According to a statement released by the defense ministry, 11 drones were taken down over the Moscow region. Additionally, 23 drones were intercepted over the Bryansk region, which shares a border with Ukraine. Six drones were destroyed over the Belgorod region, three over the Kaluga region, and two over the Kursk region.

The ministry shared these details through a statement on Wednesday, highlighting the ongoing drone warfare between the two nations.

Ukraine Makes Slow but Steady Gains in Kursk Region as Fighting Persists

Ukraine is reportedly making gradual progress in the Kursk region amid ongoing battles, according to the Institute for the Study of War (ISW).

While Ukraine faces difficulties in the eastern part of the country, the northern front has seen Kyiv's forces pushing into Russian territory. On August 6, Ukraine launched a surprise counteroffensive, with its troops crossing the border into Russia.

Ukraine previously claimed to have seized control of 1,250 square kilometers (480 square miles) and 92 settlements in Kursk, leading to the displacement of tens of thousands of people.

As of today, Ukraine's military chief reported that Ukrainian forces had advanced 28-35 kilometers (17-21 miles) into the Kursk region.

However, the US-based ISW noted that while Ukraine continues to make headway, the rate of territorial gains has slowed compared to earlier operations.

Geolocated footage from August 19 confirmed that Ukrainian forces had reached the village of Vishnevka, approximately 14 kilometers (8.5 miles) from the border.

The Russian defense ministry acknowledged that strikes had been carried out against Ukrainian forces operating in the area, indirectly confirming Kyiv's progress.

Ukraine has also been targeting key bridges in the Kursk region, likely to disrupt Russia's efforts to counter the incursion. However, Ukraine's army chief reported that Russia is reinforcing its positions in Kursk by moving troops from other areas.

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