Ukrainian drones disable two major Yandex data centers in Russia

Yandex operates critical digital infrastructure serving tens of millions of Russian users across search, AI, fintech, and mobility services. Disruptions to these platforms directly affect consumer and business access to information, payments, and transportation in Russia. Both Russia and Ukraine have expanded drone strikes targeting data centers and energy infrastructure since mid-September 2026, establishing a cycle of cross-border attacks on civilian-facing digital and economic assets. The strikes demonstrate how modern conflicts increasingly target dual-use infrastructure with measurable civilian impact, including internet outages and service interruptions.