In a notable escalation of its long-range drone campaign, Ukraine reportedly targeted a key Russian military space intelligence facility in Stavropol Krai on May 2, 2025. The Zvezda facility, a central node in Russia’s space electronic reconnaissance network, was struck by unidentified drones, according to Andrii Kovalenko, head of Ukraine’s Center for Countering Disinformation.
The Zvezda unit, established in the early 1970s, plays a critical role in intercepting satellite signals and intercontinental communications for the Russian military. It operates under the Main Intelligence Directorate (GRU) of the Russian General Staff.
While Russian authorities have not confirmed the incident, regional officials attributed the event to “falling debris,” a term often used to describe drone-related incidents.
This strike is part of Ukraine’s broader strategy to disrupt Russian military and energy infrastructure. In recent months, Ukrainian drones have targeted oil depots and refineries deep within Russian territory, including a strike on an oil depot in Svetlograd, Stavropol Krai, in November 2024.
The attack on the Zvezda facility underscores Ukraine’s growing capability to conduct precision strikes far beyond the frontlines, aiming to impair Russia’s military logistics and intelligence operations.
