Ukrainian strikes prompt Moscow air defense shift as Zelensky seeks US guarantees

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that Russia has deployed three concentric air defense rings around Moscow and Saint Petersburg, withdrawing systems from other sectors following repeated Ukrainian long-range strikes. Zelensky emphasized that despite these measures, Russian ammunition reserves will eventually deplete. In separate remarks, Zelensky expressed confidence in future US security guarantees following the conflict's conclusion, while maintaining that Ukrainian forces will not unilaterally withdraw from eastern regions.

The developments follow a wave of aerial engagements across both nations. Russian glide bombs hit residential areas in Zaporizhzhia and overnight strikes near Kyiv caused significant casualties, prompting renewed calls from Kyiv for Western air defense interceptors. Simultaneously, Ukrainian drone attacks struck targets in Crimea, Belgorod, and the outskirts of Moscow.

Sources: ANSA, Corriere della Sera, Il Messaggero, La Repubblica, La Stampa.