KYIV, Ukraine — Ukrainian forces launched a long-range drone assault on Saturday targeting a Russian defense manufacturing facility located deep within Russian territory, according to reports from Russian officials and media outlets.
The drone operation hit a facility in Russia’s Udmurt Republic, resulting in injuries to 11 individuals, with three requiring hospital treatment, local health minister Sergei Bagin reported via Telegram.
Regional leader Alexander Brechalov confirmed in a Telegram message that “One of the republic’s facilities was attacked by drones” launched by Ukrainian forces. Brechalov noted the assault resulted in both casualties and property damage, though he declined to identify the specific location or provide additional information.
The unofficial Russian Telegram news outlet Astra identified the target as the Votkinsk Machine Building Plant, a significant state-run defense contractor. Astra based this assessment on video evidence obtained from local residents.
Ukrainian officials have not yet responded to requests for comment regarding the operation.
Located more than 1,400 kilometers (870 miles) from Ukraine’s borders, the Votkinsk facility manufactures Iskander ballistic missiles frequently deployed in Russian attacks on Ukraine, along with nuclear-capable intercontinental ballistic missiles.
Russian media outlets shared video footage and photographs allegedly taken by Votkinsk residents, displaying dark smoke billowing from an industrial complex and shattered windows on nearby structures.
SHOT, another unofficial Russian Telegram channel known for citing security service sources, reported that Votkinsk residents heard no fewer than three explosions overnight, accompanied by sounds they believed were drone engines.
