Hundreds of Flights Canceled or Delayed in Russia Amid Drone Threats

In a significant disruption across Russia's air traffic network, hundreds of flights were canceled or delayed following reports of drone activity that led to major airport shutdowns in Moscow and other cities overnight. Notably, Sheremetyevo Airport, the busiest in the country, suspended all operations at two separate times - first from 1:00 to 4:07 a.m. and again from 4:25 to 5:30 a.m. These shutdowns coincided with claims of Ukrainian drone strikes targeting Russian air defenses, raising concerns over potential safety risks for travelers. According to Meduza, Aeroflot canceled at least 106 flights and delayed over 140 on May 7 alone, with the disruptions affecting airlines across the Aeroflot Group, including Rossiya and Pobeda. Reports indicated that many airports, such as Domodedovo, Vnukovo, and Zhukovsky, also experienced interruptions, forcing many flights to be rerouted to cities like St. Petersburg and Kazan. Crowds of frustrated passengers found themselves waiting for long hours, some even sleeping on the floor as they sought information and assistance amidst the chaos. This is not only an inconvenience for thousands of travelers but also illustrates the ongoing tension and violence between Russia and Ukraine. As the air traffic disruptions unfolded, both nations engaged in retaliatory drone strikes, with reports of Ukrainian attacks causing fatalities in Kyiv just hours before a proposed three-day truce by Putin was to take effect. The tensions highlight the escalating drone warfare in the region and the implications for international relations, especially as nations prepare for the May 9 Victory Day celebrations, which have drawn leaders from various allies of Russia, despite the ongoing conflict. This has raised scrutiny regarding the safety of foreign delegations attending the events amidst heightened military activity.