As Ukrainian drone attacks escalate, Russia has closed its airspace and cut off internet access in several areas, upsetting thousands of people’s daily routines.
Widespread Security Measures Implemented
Several Russian regions have taken drastic security measures in response to an unprecedented wave of Ukrainian drone attacks. On May 21, multiple airports, including Kaluga, Grabtsevo, Kubinka, and Yermolino, implemented the “Carpet plan” – a comprehensive security protocol designed to protect critical infrastructure. The airspace over the Tula region was completely closed as authorities struggled to counter the aerial threat, while explosions in the region caused significant disruptions to mobile and internet services.
40-80 drones struck russia from over 350km away..
this could be the start of a new phase in the war where little in russia is safe within 12-1500 km of the front.no S400 system can defend against 40+ drones. pic.twitter.com/oC8UEFsypt
— david D. (@secretsqrl123) May 17, 2024
Regional governors have decided to shut down mobile internet in affected areas temporarily. Oryol Governor Andrei Klychkov addressed residents about the necessity of these measures, stating: “The decision is not easy, but it is necessary.” These internet restrictions have been implemented in at least five Russian regions where drone activity has been detected, with military experts confirming this strategy disrupts the drones’ navigation capabilities.
Massive Drone Campaign Targets Russian Territory
The scale of the Ukrainian drone campaign has been extraordinary by any measure. According to Russia’s Defense Ministry, nearly 500 drones were downed in just two days, with 63 intercepted over Moscow Oblast alone. Thursday’s attack was reportedly the largest since March, with the ministry stating 182 drones were intercepted across 11 regions in a single day. Strategic targets appear to include military installations and defense manufacturing facilities.
🦅💥 Drones massively attacked Russia at night!
✈️ The “Carpet” plan was announced at Moscow’s Domodedovo, Zhukovsky and Vnukovo airports.
🤔 The Russian Defense Ministry reports almost 400 downed UAVs per day. pic.twitter.com/YpwNA5Ueb3
— MAKS 25 🇺🇦👀 (@Maks_NAFO_FELLA) May 22, 2025
“The Armed Forces of the Russian Federation have decided to introduce temporary restrictions on the operation of mobile internet and the provision of communication services in the region. This is not an easy decision, but it is necessary. Please treat it with understanding – ensuring the safety of residents, businesses, and infrastructure is most important.”
Ukrainian Telegram channels have claimed successful strikes on NPO Bazalt, a major ammunition producer in Moscow Oblast, though these claims remain unverified. The Strela defense plant in the Bryansk region was forced to halt operations due to the threat of air attacks, demonstrating the economic impact of these drone campaigns beyond immediate physical damage.
Civilian Impact and Transportation Chaos
The drone attacks have caused significant disruptions to civilian life across affected regions. Tula Oblast Governor Dmitry Milyaev reported that the area has been under an “air threat regime” for more than 35 hours, with civilian injuries from falling drone debris. Moscow’s three major international airports – Vnukovo, Domodedovo, and Sheremetyevo – have experienced severe disruptions, with hundreds of passengers stranded as flights were delayed or diverted.
“Friends, this is not the first time we have encountered restrictions on mobile Internet. Today, the situation has repeated itself…Safety is most important. I ask you to treat such measures with understanding.”
Military expert Anatoly Matviych explained that disabling mobile internet is a tactical necessity, as it directly interferes with drones’ ability to position and strike targets. While these measures protect critical infrastructure, they also create significant challenges for ordinary citizens who rely on these services for daily activities. The internet shutdowns, combined with airspace closures, represent a stark example of how modern warfare directly impacts civilian infrastructure far from the front lines.
Sources:
https://newsukraine.rbc.ua/news/explosions-and-drones-force-airport-closures-1747796455.html
https://www.newsweek.com/russia-close-airspace-internet-drone-attack-2075687