Drones have struck strategic sites in Russia’s Saratov and Engels regions, where key aviation assets are based. According to Russian media reports, residents heard loud explosions, saw air defence systems being activated, and witnessed fires breaking out.
In the early hours of 6 June, Russia experienced the realities of war on its own territory, as multiple regions came under a widespread drone assault.
Local residents described powerful blasts, the sound of air raid sirens, and anti-aircraft defences firing in response. While some drones were reportedly intercepted, others successfully reached their intended targets.
Air raid alerts and explosions: What we know
Roman Busargin, the governor of Saratov region, officially confirmed a drone threat and declared a state of emergency.
At approximately 2:20 a.m., residents of Saratov and Engels reported a series of explosions. Prior to the blasts, the buzzing of drones could be heard over several districts. The region also experienced air raid sirens and what appeared to be bursts of automatic gunfire, likely from air defence systems attempting to neutralise the incoming drones.
Attack hits airport and residential areas
At Gagarin International Airport in Saratov, all flights were temporarily suspended and an emergency protocol known as “Carpet” was activated.
Russia’s Federal Air Transport Agency (Rosaviatsiya) confirmed that all arrivals and departures were halted. Flight crews and air traffic controllers were ordered to operate under heightened security measures.
Meanwhile, drone debris struck a residential building in the city of Engels, specifically a high-rise block in the Oblaka housing complex on Telmana Street.
Eyewitnesses reported a fire on one of the balconies, as well as shattered windows on several floors. Emergency crews are currently at the scene and working to assess the damage.
Situation in other regions
Residents of Russia’s Tula and Ryazan regions also reported drone threats and active air defences overnight.
In the Dyagilevo area, which is home to a significant airbase, locals reported drone sightings and a fire, suggesting a possible strike on another piece of strategic military infrastructure.
At this time, no official reports of casualties or injuries have been released.
All emergency services across the affected regions have been placed on full alert, according to Governor Busargin.
Tensions escalate in occupied Crimea
On the evening of 5 June, five separate air raid alerts were issued across the occupied Crimean Peninsula. Explosions were reportedly heard near Krasnoperekopsk, Armiansk, Novofedorivka, and the Saky area.
Meanwhile, Russian dictator Vladimir Putin has been urged to stop complaining about Ukrainian strikes on Russian aircraft and instead agree to at least a 30-day ceasefire.
Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs called on the Kremlin leader to abandon his unrealistic ultimatums, stop avoiding direct talks with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and engage in genuine negotiations aimed at a just and lasting peace.
