A Novocherskassk drone strike overnight triggered explosions and fires at key infrastructure in southern Russia’s Rostov Oblast, disrupting transport, internet services, and damaging an energy facility. Despite official claims that only debris fell, local reports and videos suggest direct hits on strategic sites. Novocherkassk is located more than 200 km from the frontline.
Ukraine continues its deep strike campaign aimed at crippling Russia’s military logistics by targeting bases, defense plants, rail lines, and fuel depots. The Russian army relies heavily on rail transport to sustain its operations.
Power station, railway, and telecom targeted in drone strike
In the early hours of 23 July, acting head of Rostov Oblast Yurii Slyusar claimed several areas came under drone attack, including Novocherskassk, as well as the Shakhty, Myasnykivskyi, Rodionovo-Nesvitaiskyi, and Aksaiskyi districts. He stated three people were allegedly injured and repeated the usual Russian narrative of “falling debris” causing damage.
The Russian news Telegram channel Astra, citing eyewitnesses, reported that both the railway station area and the Novocherskassk State District Power Station (DRES) were struck. The Ukrainian Telgram channel Exilenova+ shared videos, showing a direct hit reportedly on the station.
Following the blasts, traffic at a local railway crossing was halted, with one driver telling Astra that a jam quickly formed due to the closure.
In Novocherskassk, drones also struck a Rostelecom office on Baklanovsky Avenue, with Astra reporting damage to the building and a nearby bus stop from debris. Residents later reported disruptions to internet and television services.
Russia claims most drones were intercepted
The Russian Ministry of Defense claimed 33 drones were intercepted or destroyed overnight across its territory, 11 of them over Rostov Oblast. The ministry did not acknowledge any successful strikes, and made no reference to damage at infrastructure sites.