At least seven people, including three children, were killed and around 40 others were injured after a drone exploded over a crowded beach at the Black Sea resort of Arkhipo-Osipovka, part of the Gelendzhik resort area in Russia’s Krasnodar region. According to Russian authorities, the drone struck an area filled with holidaymakers during the height of the tourist season.
Videos verified by Reuters appear to show a drone crashing into the beach before a powerful explosion sends people running for safety. Emergency medical teams were immediately dispatched, and Russia’s Health Ministry said 21 people, including three children, were taken to hospital, with several reported to be in serious condition.
Krasnodar regional governor Veniamin Kondratyev described the incident as a tragedy and accused Ukraine of deliberately targeting civilians. Russia’s Foreign Ministry also condemned the attack, calling it an act of terrorism.
Ukraine had not officially commented on the incident at the time of publication. Kyiv has consistently stated that it does not deliberately target civilians, saying its long-range drone campaign is aimed at military, logistics, and energy infrastructure inside Russia.
The attack comes amid a significant escalation in cross-border drone strikes. In recent weeks, Ukraine has intensified long-range operations against targets deep inside Russia, while Moscow has continued missile and drone attacks across Ukrainian cities. Analysts warn that the latest incident could further increase tensions and complicate any efforts to restart diplomatic negotiations.
Sources: Reuters, Russian Health Ministry, Krasnodar regional authorities.
