Ukraine war latest: Zelensky approves 'new long-range operations' in response to Russian strikes

On September 19, 2026, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky approved new long-range operations in response to Russian strikes. The announcement came after consultations with Defense Minister Yevhen Khmara and Commander-in-Chief Mykhailo Drapatyi. Zelensky stated that he would expand Ukraine's long-range capabilities in retaliation for Russian attacks on Ukraine. He did not provide specific details about the nature of these new operations.

Ukraine has been intensifying its deep strike campaign against Russian targets, including oil facilities, military infrastructure, logistics hubs, and weapons production sites. The country has managed to strike over 3,000 kilometers (1,860 miles) inside Russia, as confirmed by Zelensky in July. Ukraine claims to have tested a new interceptor against jet-powered Shahed drones and reported successful hits on two Russian Shaheds, including a jet-powered Geran-5 drone.

On September 20, Ukraine launched a massive drone and missile attack on Russia, targeting the Moscow Oil Refinery in the Kapotnya district. The attack resulted in significant damage to the facility, which supplies 40% of Moscow's fuel market. Multiple videos showed the refinery ablaze. The General Staff confirmed that the attack had a substantial impact on Russian operations in the Moscow region. The strike also led to residential drone strikes in Moscow's suburbs, causing injuries and fires.