On July 23 and 24, 2026, intense cross-border aerial operations escalated between Russia and Ukraine. Ukrainian forces conducted strikes deep into Russian territory, including a drone attack in the Belgorod region that killed one person and a missile strike on a military equipment factory in Kirov. The Kirov facility, which produces components for aircraft and missiles, suffered six deaths and 26 injuries according to regional governor Aleksandr Sokolov. Additionally, Ukrainian drones targeted logistics facilities in Crimea and St. Petersburg.

In retaliation, Russia launched a ballistic missile attack on a defense industry event near Kyiv. Ukrainian officials reported that the strike on a private training ground resulted in 10 deaths and approximately 100 injuries among industry professionals. The Russian Ministry of Defense claimed the target was a facility hosting drone developers, military commanders, and intelligence officers involved in planning attacks against Russia. Rescue operations remain ongoing at the site in the Kyiv region, as authorities continue to assess the full impact of the incident.