Zelensky says airlines should avoid Russian airspace as Ukraine escalates drone operations
Chinese and Gulf state airlines are among those still using Russian airspace. Meanwhile, Russia says it will intensify its own attacks on Ukraine.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has warned airlines to avoid Russian airspace due to escalating drone operations. Zelensky stated that the Russian sky is becoming "completely dangerous" and urged airlines, insurers, and officials to be aware of the heightened risk. Most Western commercial airlines have already stopped flying over Russia due to the ongoing invasion, but some Asian carriers continue to use Russian airspace for time and fuel savings.
Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine is not threatening civilian aviation but is preparing for a significant increase in drone strikes across Russian territory. Russian President Vladimir Putin condemned Zelensky's remarks as a "declaration of state terrorism" and threatened further attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure. The situation has led to a warning from aviation risk advisory firm Osprey Flight Solutions that the frequency of Ukrainian strikes may increase, particularly in areas deep inside Russia.
Written by urgent.news from BBC News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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