Three individuals lost their lives and nine others sustained injuries following a series of drone attacks in southwestern Russia early Thursday, December 18, 2025. The strikes targeted the Rostov region, an area that has seen frequent hostilities.
Details of the Dual Attacks
Regional Governor Yury Slyusar provided details of the incidents via his Telegram channel. The first attack involved a cargo ship at the port in Rostov-on-Don, the regional capital. A drone struck the vessel, resulting in the deaths of two people and leaving three others wounded.
In a separate but related incident, the nearby city of Bataysk was also hit. The attack there caused fires in two residential houses. This assault led to one fatality and six injuries, adding to the overall casualty count from the night's events.
Large-Scale Air Defense Response
In response to the overnight assault, the Russian Ministry of Defense reported a significant defensive operation. Officials stated that 77 drones were intercepted and destroyed over Russian territory. This large number highlights the scale of the attempted attacks and the ongoing aerial threat faced by the region.
Context and Immediate Aftermath
The Rostov region, which borders Ukraine, has been a frequent target since the escalation of the conflict. Attacks on port infrastructure and civilian areas have increased in recent months. Local authorities, including Governor Slyusar, are coordinating emergency response efforts, including firefighting and medical aid for the injured. The incidents underscore the continuing volatility and human cost of the war, with civilian infrastructure increasingly caught in the crossfire.
