25 April 2026
Ukrainian strike drones attacked Yekaterinburg and Chelyabinsk in the central Urals for the first time.
The attack was reported by Sverdlovsk region Governor Denis Pasler and Chelyabinsk region Governor Alexei Teksler.
The drones traveled approximately 1,700–1,800 km to these cities, remaining undetected by Russian air defense systems.
It is worth noting that the flight range could exceed the figures cited, as the measurement of distance from Ukraine’s state border does not account for the actual launch points.
This complicates precise calculations, so the actual distance may turn out to be significantly greater.
As a reminder, Russian officials, in particular Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu, in 2026 effectively acknowledged the increased range of Ukrainian UAVs, which allows them to reach targets deep within Russian territory
Distance from Yekaterinburg to the Ukrainian border according to Google Maps
In fact, this is not the first time Ukraine has carried out attacks at distances exceeding 1,300–1,400 km. Previously, strike drones repeatedly struck targets in the city of Orsk, located 1,400 km from the border.
Distance from Chelyabinsk to the Ukrainian border according to Google Maps
This city has been the target of successful strikes despite its significant distance from Ukrainian territory. For example, in October 2025, Liutyi kamikaze drones attacked the Orsknefteorgsintez oil refinery.
Just think, such drones are flying for hours and hours over enemy territory before finally finding and striking their targets. And Ukraine does this over and over again. That’s quite an achievment for a country without cards.
Also amazing that our drones get through the impenetrable Russian defenses.