During a night strike in Voronezh, three multi-storey residential buildings sustained damage after Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles were reportedly intercepted. A Telegram channel run by a local observer, Alexander Gusev, who serves as the governor of the Voronezh region, provided the initial details on the incident.
The regional leadership stated that all relevant services are operating on-site to assess and respond to the situation in Voronezh. Preliminary information indicates that 35 apartments across three 10-storey buildings on Teplichnaya Street sustained damage. Emergency planners have also noted the need to monitor ongoing conditions in the affected area and to coordinate potential temporary housing arrangements if residents require relocation. A temporary accommodation center was discussed, with secondary school No. 84 identified as a possible site for residents displaced by the event; so far, no person has requested shelter, with most residents reportedly staying with relatives or friends.
Air defense systems in operation over Voronezh reportedly shot down Ukrainian drones during the night of January 16. The defense actions coincided with a small fire that started on a balcony of one building, and damage to windows in two residential structures as well as several nearby private homes. Officials have emphasized that safety measures remain in place and that the scene is being secured for investigation and recovery efforts.
Tragically, a ten-year-old girl sustained injuries during the drone attack. She suffered cuts to her arm, leg, and neck. Although medical attention was required, authorities indicated that these injuries were not life-threatening and that she is receiving appropriate care. The incident underscores the risks faced by civilians in urban areas during hostilities, and responders continue to provide medical and logistical support to affected families.
According to the press service of the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation, air defense units on duty reported the destruction of five Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles and the interception of three additional drones within the Voronezh region overnight. It was also noted that four other drones were detained within the Belgorod region. These statements reflect ongoing defensive operations aimed at safeguarding regional security and civilian populations amid continuing hostilities.
Earlier reports indicated that the Russian military conducted multiple Tochka-U surface-to-surface missiles launches in the preceding day, highlighting a pattern of ongoing aerial and missile activity in the broader border region. Authorities continue to monitor developments, provide updates to residents, and coordinate with regional emergency services to mitigate damage and ensure rapid response capabilities in case of further incidents. [Attribution: Official statements from regional authorities and the Ministry of Defense; ongoing updates will be issued as information becomes available.]