Sun Dec 22 02:04:02 UTC 2024: ## Drone Strikes Hit Kazan High-Rises, Drawing Comparisons to 9/11
**Kazan, Russia** – A series of drone attacks on high-rise residential buildings in Kazan, Russia, this morning sparked comparisons to the 9/11 terrorist attacks. While no casualties were reported, and all residents were safely evacuated, the incident caused significant damage and widespread alarm.
Unverified videos circulating on social media show drones impacting the skyscrapers, resulting in large fires and plumes of black smoke. The attacks, which occurred in three waves between 7:40 am and 9:20 am local time, prompted the temporary closure of Kazan’s airport and the cancellation of major public events in the Tatarstan republic.
Russia’s Defence Ministry claimed to have neutralized or destroyed six drones, but the exact number involved remains unclear. Rustam Minnikhanov, the leader of Tatarstan, stated that the attacks represent an escalation, shifting from targeting industrial sites to civilian areas.
Ukraine has yet to officially comment on the incident. The timing of the attacks, weeks after Russia rejected negotiations for a ceasefire, adds further tension to the ongoing conflict. The Kremlin has previously stated its unwillingness to negotiate unless Ukraine abandons its NATO aspirations and withdraws troops from Russian-controlled territories.
This incident follows a similar drone attack on a residential building in Saratov in August, which resulted in four injuries. The comparison to the 9/11 attacks, while jarring, highlights the gravity of the situation and the increasing use of drones in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Authorities are investigating the incident and assessing the full extent of the damage. Flight restrictions have also been temporarily implemented at airports in Izhevsk and Saratov, though the Saratov restrictions have since been lifted.
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