Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has issued a stark warning to Russia, revealing plans for an intense 40-day “influence operation” targeting Russian forces and infrastructure. This operation aims to escalate pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin to end the ongoing conflict.
Recent reports indicate that Kyiv has intensified its assaults on Russian territory using advanced drones, causing significant damage to Moscow’s critical facilities. Two Russian oil refineries in Ufa, located 930 miles from the frontline, and an oil depot in the Krasnodar region, 180 miles from Ukraine, were reportedly targeted in attacks on Wednesday night.
Zelensky has authorized Ukraine’s SBU security service to carry out a strategic 40-day campaign targeting Russia. The goal is to weaken Russia’s resolve and compel Putin to seek a resolution to the conflict. Zelensky announced this plan on social media, emphasizing the SBU’s success in defending Ukraine with drone technology and special operations teams.
Over the past months, Ukraine has been conducting targeted strikes on Russian military installations and energy sites. These actions have led to fuel shortages and disrupted supply chains, hampering Moscow’s aggressive advances after years of conflict.
Recent drone attacks have been reported in 12 Russian regions, with significant assaults in Crimea, the Azov Sea, and the Black Sea regions. Zelensky highlighted Russia’s reinforcement of air defenses in key locations, including the capital, Valdai, and the Kerch Bridge connecting Crimea to mainland Russia.
The Ukrainian president mentioned the concentration of air defense systems in the Moscow region and the redeployment of launchers to Valdai from other parts of Russia. Ukrainian drones have targeted major Russian cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg, while efforts are ongoing to isolate Crimea.
Zelensky suggested that the adjustments in Russia’s air defense posture could expose vulnerabilities to Ukraine’s long-range drones, capable of flying over 930 miles. This shift in tactics indicates a strategic shift in Ukraine’s military operations against Russian forces.