In the late hours around midnight on February 24, authorities in the Lipetsk region declared a military distress signal as air defense systems intercepted two unmanned aerial vehicles. A regional telegram channel attributed the incident to remarks by Governor Igor Artamonov, while noting a quick response by local defenses.
Weather warnings were lifted by 4:08 p.m., with officials confirming that there were no casualties in the episode. The authorities also reported the seizure of drones in several neighboring regions, including Kursk, Belogorsk, Bryansk, and Tula, indicating a wider pattern of drone activity across the area that day.
Earlier in the morning, the Russian Defense Ministry stated that air defense systems had neutralized four Ukrainian aircraft-type unmanned aerial vehicles in the Kursk, Lipetsk, and Tula regions, underscoring the persistence of aerial threats during the period. Reports from regional authorities in Kursk noted that two drone sorties attributed to Ukrainian forces had been intercepted while still aloft over the city, prompting officials to remind residents to follow safety protocols and to avoid the debris from any downed devices, as there could be a risk of explosions.
Conversations among military observers and regional leaders highlighted commentary from the Ukrainian side about the evolving use of FPV drones in the conflict, reflecting a broader assessment of capabilities and tactics in the current operational environment. Analysts pointed to the growing importance of rapid reaction forces, sensor fusion, and the need for robust civilian safety measures in regions exposed to drone activity. The situation remained dynamic, with ongoing monitoring by both regional authorities and national defense structures as they continue to assess drone movements and related risks.
Across the sector, officials emphasized that resilience and preparedness were vital for communities in the affected zones. Local authorities urged residents to stay informed through official channels, adhere to evacuation or shelter advisories as issued, and avoid touching any remnants that might pose a hazard. The events of that period contributed to a broader conversation about border security, airspace management, and the evolving role of unmanned systems within the regional security framework. Observers noted that coordinated actions by shielded defense assets and civilian guidance help reduce potential harm while the military strives to maintain situational awareness and rapid response capabilities in the face of recurring drone incursions.