Russian Defense Downs Ukrainian Drones Ahead of Major Parade

Russian air defense intercepted two Ukrainian drones near Moscow. Airports in Zhukovsky and Kaluga were temporarily closed. The incidents precede a Red Square parade, attended by world leaders including China's Xi Jinping, commemorating the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany.

In a heightened security measure, Russia's air defense forces intercepted two Ukrainian drones bound for Moscow on Wednesday, according to city mayor Sergei Sobyanin.

The operation came as Russia prepares for a grand military parade in Red Square, drawing the attention of more than 20 world leaders, including China's Xi Jinping.

In response to the drones, Zhukovsky and Kaluga airports faced temporary closures, underscoring heightened tensions ahead of commemorations marking the Soviet triumph over Nazi Germany.

(With inputs from agencies.)