Ukrainian drone raid hits Russian residential blocks – officials (PHOTOS/VIDEO)

A Ukrainian drone raid damaged residential buildings in the southern Russian city of Taganrog late on Tuesday, injuring two civilians and forcing the evacuation of dozens, according to local officials.

The drones sparked fires at a nine-story building and a seven-story block, according to acting Rostov Region Governor Yury Slusar.
“Two people sustained minor injuries, including burns and cuts. They are now being treated,” he said. “Fortunately, there are no fatalities.”

One drone was found lodged in a tree near residential buildings, according to Taganrog Mayor Svetlana Kambulova.

Slusar announced a state of emergency in the city – which is 80km from the Ukraine conflict front line – following the attack.

Emergency crews temporarily evacuated 85 residents from one affected building. By Wednesday morning, city officials said residents were allowed to return after specialists determined there was no structural threat and utilities remained intact.

Videos circulating on social media showed the moment of a nighttime explosion meters away from one of the buildings. Another clip depicted a fire in a yard and damaged cars parked nearby. Kabulova released several pictures depicting the building’s damaged facade with shattered windows.

Russia has repeatedly accused Ukraine of using artillery and drones to strike civilian infrastructure and residential buildings, particularly in areas close to the front line. The recent strikes also come as Russia and the US have engaged in active talks to find a settlement on the Ukraine conflict.

Last month, following a phone call with US President Donald Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed to a 30-day moratorium on strikes targeting energy infrastructure. Moscow, however, has said that Kiev violated the deal almost immediately. Despite this, Russian officials have signaled that Moscow will abide by the partial ceasefire, arguing that it serves as a signal of improving US-Russia ties.