Zelenskyy orders triple long-range strikes on Russia
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The gist
Zelenskyy ordered the military to triple long-range drone strikes on Russia to 1,000 per day. The escalation aims to pressure Moscow amid ongoing war and economic damage.
Background
Ukraine has been using long-range drones to strike Russian oil facilities, airfields, and logistics to inflict economic pain and disrupt military supplies. Zelenskyy's order to increase strikes to 1,000 per day is part of his 'long-range sanctions' doctrine, aiming to bring the war's consequences back to Russia. The move comes as Russia continues deadly attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure and ports.
How it unfolded
- Aug 24, 2026European leaders join Zelenskyy in Kyiv for Ukraine's Independence Day; both sides continue long-range strikes.
- Aug 26, 2026Ukraine launches hundreds of drones at Russia, including a strike on a Wildberries depot in Tambov; Russia shoots down 426 drones.
- Aug 28, 2026Zelenskyy orders military to increase long-range drone strikes to 1,000 per day, up from about 300; Russia launches massive missile and drone strikes on Ukrainian ports and infrastructure.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- Zelenskyy says there is a concrete goal and the task will be fulfilled, emphasizing the need for more strikes.
- Analysts
- Analysts note the strikes are part of a 'long-range sanctions' doctrine, but some Western governments may face legal and reputational issues if similar tactics are used.
- Caution
- Zelenskyy has refused to permit attacks on civil airports, concerned such attacks might be viewed as 'piracy' and undermine support.
Still unverified
Reports of a strike on a Russian Tu-95MS aircraft at Engels base by Ukraine's SBU Alpha unit are unverified.