Moscow Airports Grounded: Drone Attacks and Sanctions Create Travel Chaos

Moscow Airport Closures: Drone Attacks and Sanctions Impact Air Travel On May 28th and 29th, 2025, Moscow's airports experienced widespread disruptions, leading to flight cancellations and significant passenger delays. The Russian Ministry of Defense attributed the closures to a Ukrainian drone attack, claiming their air defenses intercepted 48 drones. This incident unfolded against the backdrop of ongoing geopolitical tensions and sanctions imposed on Russia. Videos circulating on social media showed hundreds of passengers stranded at Vnukovo airport, with one passenger recounting a flight diverted to Samara due to an unspecified technical issue. "They kept us waiting for 40 minutes," the passenger stated, "then the plane landed in Samara without explanation." This highlights the chaos and uncertainty faced by travelers. Adding to the difficulties, S7 Airlines, a major Russian carrier, announced flight cancellations from Novokuznetsk to Moscow and other routes. A representative attributed the cancellations to a shortage of aircraft parts, a direct consequence of international sanctions. The situation underscores the complex interplay between geopolitical events and the practical challenges faced by the Russian aviation industry. The events of May 28th and 29th serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing instability and its far-reaching consequences, impacting not only geopolitical relations but also the daily lives of ordinary citizens.