Authorities in Russia’s Krasnodar region said 17 of the injured were taken to hospital for treatment, while emergency services responded immediately to assist victims at the scene.
Videos circulating on social media appeared to show a drone flying toward the beach, where dozens of tourists had gathered to enjoy the summer holiday. Reuters could not independently verify the authenticity of the footage.
Krasnodar Governor Veniamin Kondratyev accused Ukraine of deliberately targeting civilians, describing the attack as a direct strike on a recreational area. Ukrainian authorities have not commented on the allegations or claimed responsibility for the incident.
The attack took place near the Black Sea resort town of Arkhipo-Osipovka, a popular summer destination visited by thousands of Russian tourists each year.
The incident comes as Russia and Ukraine continue to intensify long-range drone attacks targeting military facilities, weapons depots, energy infrastructure, and other strategic sites on both sides of the conflict.
The war, which began with Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, has increasingly relied on drone warfare, with both countries carrying out frequent strikes far beyond the front lines. The latest attack is expected to further heighten tensions as fighting continues with no immediate signs of a negotiated settlement.
