Ukraine’s President, Volodymyr Zelensky, has issued a stern warning to Russia about an upcoming 40-day “influence operation” aimed at pressuring Vladimir Putin to end the ongoing conflict. Recent reports indicate that Kyiv has intensified its attacks on Russian territory, utilizing mid and long-range drones to target Moscow and inflict significant damage on critical infrastructure.
In the latest developments, two Russian oil refineries in Ufa, located 930 miles from the conflict zone, and an oil depot in the Krasnodar region, 180 miles from Ukraine, were reportedly struck on Wednesday night. Zelensky has now authorized a comprehensive plan for Ukraine’s security service, SBU, to launch a 40-day blitz targeting Russia with the objective of compelling Putin to cease hostilities.
Announcing the initiative on social media, Zelensky stated, “I approved a 40-day influence operation against the aggressor state to end the war.” He highlighted the SBU’s success in defending Ukraine’s positions on the front lines using various drone technologies and special operations units.
Ukraine’s strategic campaign against Russian military installations and energy facilities has caused fuel shortages and disrupted supply lines, impeding Moscow’s military advances after years of conflict. Recent drone attacks have been reported in 12 Russian regions, with heightened assaults in Crimea, the Azov, and the Black Sea areas.
Zelensky revealed that Russia is reinforcing its air defenses in key locations such as Moscow, Valdai, and the Kerch Bridge, a vital supply link to Crimea. The President noted a concentration of air defense launchers in the Moscow region and the redeployment of units to Valdai from other parts of Russia, suggesting vulnerabilities in other regions to Ukraine’s advanced drone capabilities.
Efforts to target Moscow, St. Petersburg, and Crimea underscore Ukraine’s determination to confront Russian aggression. Zelensky emphasized the increased range and sophistication of Ukrainian drones, posing a significant threat to Russian defenses.
The evolving air defense posture in Russia signals a potential shift in the conflict dynamics, with Ukraine leveraging its drone capabilities to challenge Russian military assets across the region.