In a concerning turn of events, the Kremlin has issued a blunt threat of nuclear weapons use following a drone strike on Moscow’s skyscraper zone. The attack, which Russia’s Defence Ministry described as an “attempted terrorist attack by the Kyiv regime,” involved three Ukrainian drones targeting an elite office building and residential skyscraper in Moscow.

Dmitry Medvedev, a former Russian president and ally of Putin, warned that there is “simply no other way out” and that Kyiv should pray that a global nuclear conflict does not occur. Russia claimed to have brought down all three Ukrainian drones and also reported foiling a separate Ukrainian attempt to attack Russia-annexed Crimea with 25 drones.

These incidents have raised concerns about Moscow’s vulnerability to attacks as the conflict between Russia and Ukraine continues. In response to the attack, Moscow temporarily closed traffic at one of its airports, Vnukovo, and flights were redirected to other airports.

The attack caused minor damage to two office buildings in the Moscow-City business district, an area known for its modern high-rise towers. While no casualties were reported, the incident has sparked fears about the potential escalation of the conflict. President Vladimir Putin praised Russia’s navy during an annual warship parade in Saint Petersburg.

He hailed the brave crews of ships and submarines and emphasized Russia’s commitment to building up its naval power. The parade took place as Russia’s offensive in Ukraine entered its second year and following the downing of three Ukrainian drones over Moscow.

Russia’s Defence Ministry accused Ukraine of carrying out the attack, labeling it an attempted terrorist attack by the Kyiv regime. It claimed that 16 Ukrainian drones were destroyed by air defence fire, while an additional nine were suppressed by electronic warfare and crashed into the Black Sea.

Ukraine has not yet commented on these allegations. These recent events come amid ongoing tensions between Russia and Ukraine. Putin expressed openness to peace talks with Ukraine but warned of difficulties in implementing certain provisions.

Ukraine has rejected the idea of a ceasefire, as it believes it would leave Russia in control of a significant portion of its territory. Reports also suggest that Saudi Arabia is planning to host a peace summit in early August, with Ukraine, Brazil, India, South Africa, and other countries in attendance.

The drone attack on Moscow highlights the increasing use of unmanned aerial vehicles in modern warfare. It also underscores the escalating conflict between Russia and Ukraine, with the potential for further escalation and the use of nuclear weapons.

The international community must closely monitor the situation and work towards a peaceful resolution to avoid a catastrophic outcome.