Images posted on 3 August 2026 show a drone striking a beach near the Black Sea resort of Gelendzhik. Krasnodar Krai governor Veniamin Kondratyev said six people, including three children, were killed and about 40 were injured, and he blamed Ukraine. Ukraine's military has not commented, and some reports suggest the drone may have been aimed at the Novorossiysk naval base roughly 40 km away. The images and claims remain unverified.
Drone Strike Hits Gelendzhik Beach — Governor Says Six Dead, Including Children
Moment drone strikes Russian Black Sea beach resort
Images posted on social media on 3 August 2026 appear to show a drone striking a crowded beach near the Black Sea resort town of Gelendzhik in Russia's Krasnodar Krai. Local officials say the incident left multiple civilians dead and dozens wounded.
What Officials Say
Krasnodar Krai governor Veniamin Kondratyev told state media that six people were killed — including three children — and some 40 others were injured. Kondratyev blamed Ukraine for the attack. At the time of reporting, Ukraine's military had not commented on the incident.
Possible Target
Some media reports and commentators have suggested the drone may have been aiming for the Russian naval base at Novorossiysk, roughly 40 kilometres from Gelendzhik, rather than the beach itself. These claims have not been independently verified.
Note: The images circulating on social platforms have not been authenticated by independent sources. Casualty and attribution details are based on regional officials' statements.
Authorities in the region have not released a full timeline or technical details about the drone. Further investigation and verification by independent observers will be needed to confirm responsibility and the precise sequence of events.
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