Drone Attack Delays Indian MP Kanimozhi’s Flight to Moscow
An Indian parliamentary delegation led by DMK MP Kanimozhi Karunanidhi faced an unexpected delay on May 22, 2025, as their flight to Moscow was forced to circle in the sky for nearly 40 minutes. The disruption came after Ukrainian drone strikes triggered a temporary shutdown of Moscow’s Domodedovo International Airport, highlighting the rising geopolitical tensions in the region.
“Flight of Kanimozhi-Led Indian MP Delegation Circles Moscow Sky Following Ukraine Drone Attack”
Delegation on Operation Sindoor Mission
The Kanimozhi-led delegation was en route to Russia as part of Operation Sindoor, India’s international diplomatic campaign launched after the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians. The objective of the mission is to build global consensus against terrorism and expose Pakistan’s complicity in cross-border violence. This outreach is seen as a significant post-attack diplomatic offensive, aiming to pressure the international community to acknowledge and act upon India’s long-standing concerns.
The delegation comprises representatives across political parties, including BJP’s Brijesh Chowta, AAP’s Dr. Ashok Kumar Mittal, RJD’s Premchand Gupta, SP’s Rajeev Rai, and former Indian envoy Manjeev Singh Puri. Their participation reflects bipartisan unity in India’s foreign policy posturing against terror threats.
Reception in Moscow and Planned Engagements
Following their safe landing, the MPs were received by Indian Ambassador to Russia, Vinay Kumar. The visit includes scheduled discussions with Russian officials to deepen counter-terrorism cooperation and to present India’s concerns over state-sponsored terrorism. The engagement is part of a larger itinerary that includes similar diplomatic missions to Europe and Central Asia under Operation Sindoor.
Ukraine-Russia Conflict Adds Complexity
The mid-air circling of the Indian delegation’s flight was triggered by Ukraine’s intensified drone attacks targeting Moscow, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing war. The Domodedovo airport, one of Moscow’s key international terminals, was briefly closed amid the attack, highlighting the deteriorating security landscape in the region.
This incident has added a layer of complexity to India’s diplomatic outreach, demonstrating how interconnected global conflicts can directly affect even peaceful missions. It also underscores the rising risk profile for international travel and diplomacy in volatile zones.
