Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has warned that Russian airspace is becoming increasingly dangerous as Ukraine expands its long-range drone operations deep inside Russian territory.
Warning issued to airlines
Zelenskyy addressed international airlines, insurance companies and governments that continue to permit flights through Russian airspace. He said the growing number of Ukrainian drones would make normal aviation operations increasingly difficult and could effectively close parts of the country’s skies.
The Ukrainian president stressed that civilian aircraft are not targets. However, he warned that airlines must take the presence of drones and responding Russian air-defence systems into account when assessing flight safety.
European and American airlines generally avoid Russian airspace because of the war and existing restrictions. Carriers from China, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates and other Gulf countries continue to operate through the area, allowing them to reduce journey times and fuel costs on some routes.
Drone campaign reaches deeper into Russia
Ukraine has intensified attacks against Russian military, industrial and energy infrastructure, including oil refineries and storage facilities. Some strikes have reached areas close to Moscow and St Petersburg, forcing temporary airport closures and disrupting civilian flights.
Aviation risk analysts expect Ukrainian drone and missile operations inside Russia to continue and possibly increase. They have also warned that Russian air defences could mistakenly identify civilian aircraft as hostile targets during an attack.
Escalation follows attacks on Kyiv
Zelenskyy’s warning followed six consecutive days of major Russian air attacks against Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities. The latest assault killed at least 12 people and injured many more.
Russia has continued using missiles and drones against Ukrainian cities, transport systems and infrastructure, while Ukraine has responded by extending the reach of its own unmanned weapons.
The growing aerial campaign is turning airspace far beyond the front line into another area of risk, increasing pressure on airlines, insurers and foreign governments to reconsider flights across Russia.
Newshub Editorial in Europe – 2 September 2026
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