Zelensky Warns of Massive Russian Strike as 3 Tu-160 Bombers Take Off

President Volodymyr Zelensky has warned Ukrainian citizens to take shelter as they prepare for a potential massive strike from Moscow. In an evening address on Tuesday, Oct. 6, Zelensky announced the readiness of Ukrainian emergency services and the Air Force to respond, highlighting the importance of their air defense capabilities.

He pleaded for assistance from allies, emphasizing the role of partners in bolstering Ukraine's defensive measures. Shortly after the address, Ukraine's Air Force confirmed that three Russian Tu-160 strategic bombers had taken off from Belaya airbase in Russia’s Siberian Irkutsk region. The bombers could potentially launch cruise missiles, with the threat of them entering Ukrainian airspace after 3 a.m. local time.

Zelensky urged citizens to heed air raid alerts and seek shelter immediately. The president also addressed a coordination meeting that included government officials, military commanders, and emergency services earlier in the day. The defense minister and Air Force commander briefed Zelensky on the distribution of air defense assets and protection strategies for critical facilities.

The government and regional authorities have been working on logistics measures to counter Russian operations against Ukraine's supply lines, with deadlines already set for many tasks. Additionally, Zelensky chaired a meeting of the Staff of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief, where they discussed the neutralization of Russian drones using electronic warfare systems.

The focus was on scaling up these effective strategies and prioritizing the supply of long-range drones to Ukrainian forces for future defense.