Zelenskyy Warns Airlines About Russian Airspace Amid Increased Ukrainian Drone Operations
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has urged airlines to avoid flying through Russian airspace, citing increased drone operations by Ukraine that are making the skies more dangerous. While most Western carriers have avoided Russian airspace since Russia's invasion in February 2022, some Chinese and Gulf-based airlines continue using it. Zelenskyy emphasized that civilian aviation is not a target but warned of widespread drones in Russian airspace. In response to these warnings, Russian President Vladimir Putin accused Kyiv of engaging in 'state terrorism' and dismissed the possibility of resuming peace talks with Ukraine. Meanwhile, Russia's Defense Ministry announced plans for large-scale strikes on Ukrainian energy infrastructure, raising concerns about intensified hostilities as winter approaches.
Topics: air traffic safety diplomacy drones Russia Ukraine