Ukrainian President Zelensky warns airlines of growing risks in Russian airspace

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has warned international airlines and insurers that Russian airspace is becoming increasingly hazardous as Kyiv expands its long-range drone operations. While clarifying that Ukrainian forces will not target civilian passenger aircraft, Zelensky emphasized rising risks around major Russian aviation hubs.

The warning comes alongside escalating deep-strike operations from both sides, with Ukrainian and Russian forces increasingly deploying long-range attack drones and cruise missiles. Ukrainian defense efforts remain constrained by shortages of air defense interceptor missiles needed to counter Russian strikes, as well as ongoing military personnel shortages along the front line.

Sources: Morgunblaðið, Vísir.