Zelenskyy warns airlines to avoid Russian airspace as Ukraine escalates drone operations, making skies increasingly unsafe

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has issued a stark warning to airlines regarding the dangers of flying through Russian airspace, as Ukraine intensifies its drone operations. In a recent address, he stated, "We want to warn every airline that uses Russian airspace... Russian airspace is becoming completely unsafe."

Zelenskyy highlighted the importance of this warning for airlines operating in major Russian cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg, noting that the risk to civilian aviation is rising due to the scale of drone activity. He clarified, "Ukraine does not threaten civilian aviation as such - not a single civilian aircraft" is in danger, but the presence of drones must be considered.

This warning comes as Ukraine escalates its long-range drone strikes targeting Russian oil refineries and logistics hubs, aiming to increase the costs of the ongoing conflict for Moscow. "The war is returning home to Russia," Zelenskyy remarked, indicating a shift in the conflict's dynamics.

Despite most Western airlines avoiding Russian airspace since the invasion began in February 2022, some Chinese and Gulf carriers continue to operate in the region. Aviation risk advisory firm Osprey Flight Solutions has noted that while most strikes are likely to occur within 300km of the border, attacks deeper into Russia are expected to persist.

In response, Russian President Vladimir Putin dismissed Zelenskyy's comments as a "declaration of state terrorism" and vowed to intensify attacks on Ukraine, further complicating the aviation landscape in the region.