Ukraine warns of rising risks in Russian airspace amid drone escalation

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has issued a warning to international airlines and insurers that Russian airspace is becoming increasingly unsafe as long-range drone operations expand. Zelensky stressed that while Ukrainian forces will not target civilian passenger aircraft, major Russian aviation hubs face mounting operational risks.

The developments come as Ukrainian troops continue efforts to slow Russian territorial advances along the front lines. Military operations on both sides rely heavily on long-range attack drones and cruise missiles. However, Ukrainian defense efforts remain constrained by significant shortages of air defense interceptor missiles needed to counter deep aerial bombardments. Furthermore, Ukrainian commanders are prioritizing troop preservation amid persistent manpower shortages, which could intensify if Moscow orders additional mobilization measures.

Sources: Morgunblaðið, Vísir.