Zelenskyy approves new long-range operations in response to Russian strikes

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has greenlit fresh long-range strikes in retaliation for Russian aggression. In a Telegram post following a meeting with top military leaders, Zelenskyy announced preparations to bolster Ukraine’s long-range capabilities. On June 25, Zelenskyy authorized a 40-day operation aimed at pressuring the aggressor to cease hostilities.

Earlier on August 4, the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) revealed that during the 40-day campaign, nearly 100 strategic sites in Russia and occupied Ukrainian territories were targeted, alongside over 21,000 front-line objectives. Key focus areas included crippling Russian aviation infrastructure, weakening air defenses, and targeting fuel and energy sectors.

The SBU struck military airfields, an aviation plant, and multiple fuel installations, destroying a Tu-95MS bomber and hitting Su-35 and L-39 aircraft. Systematic attacks also disrupted Russian logistics, targeting oil refineries, depots, pumping stations, and production platforms. Notably, key Russian refineries in St. Petersburg, Yaroslavl, Nizhny Novgorod, Perm, and Volgograd were hit, along with facilities across Ufa.

Warships such as the Blue, Louise 1, Banda, and Avero tankers, along with two sanctioned cargo vessels, also fell victim to Ukrainian strikes.