Zelensky warns airlines of unsafe Russian airspace as long-range drone strikes escalate

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has warned commercial airlines and insurance companies that Russian airspace is becoming increasingly unsafe as Ukraine expands its long-range drone strikes inside Russia. While emphasizing that Ukrainian forces will not target civilian passenger flights, Zelensky urged operators to avoid Russian airspace and major airports.

On the front lines, Ukrainian troops continue fighting to contain ongoing Russian advances while prioritizing troop preservation amid persistent manpower shortages. Both nations have escalated long-distance drone and missile bombardments against strategic positions. However, Ukrainian defenses remain critically constrained by shortages of air defense interceptors needed to counter incoming Russian strikes. Meanwhile, reports indicate a Russian official was dismissed after publicly warning that the prolonged war could trigger a severe domestic social crisis.

Sources: Morgunblaðið, Vísir.