Russian Forces Intercept Drones Bound for Moscow in Ukraine Conflict

Russia has shot down two combat drones heading towards Moscow, marking the third time this week that authorities have intercepted drones targeting the capital. Meanwhile, the death toll in Pokrovsk has risen to nine, with 82 reported injuries, following a double missile attack launched by Russia on Monday. Ukraine has reopened a border crossing with Russia to allow Ukrainian refugees to return home. Russia plans to increase its military presence along its western borders, closer to NATO members such as Finland and Poland. Poland has sent 2,000 troops to its border with Belarus amid fears over the presence of Russian Wagner mercenaries. An explosion at an optical-mechanical factory near Moscow injured at least 50 people, with unverified reports suggesting a Ukrainian drone attack may have caused the blast. The Ukrainian military has repelled Russian attacks in eastern regions amid heavy fighting. Rheinmetall, a German arms maker, is reportedly preparing to export battle tanks to Ukraine. The death toll in Pokrovsk has risen to nine, with President Zelenskyy accusing Moscow of deliberately targeting rescue workers. Russian air defenses have shot down two combat drones moving towards Moscow, following multiple drone attacks on the capital in recent weeks.