Zelensky urges global airlines to shun Russian airspace amid escalating drone strikes

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has urged airlines worldwide to cease operations through Russian airspace, citing escalated drone activities over the conflict zone. The appeal targets major carriers from China, the Middle East and other regions that continue to use Russian air corridors, which remain among the few available for long-haul flights between Europe and Asia following Western sanctions.

Zelensky's statement reflects Ukraine's expanding drone campaign against Russian territory, including strikes on critical infrastructure and military installations. The calls for airspace avoidance underscore Kyiv's broader strategy to increase economic and operational pressure on Moscow.

Russia has responded to Ukraine's intensified operations by vowing to escalate its own attacks on Ukrainian targets. The Russian military has signalled plans to expand strikes on energy infrastructure, industrial facilities and other civilian areas.

The continuation of Chinese and Gulf state airline operations through Russian airspace highlights the divergence in international responses to the conflict. While Western carriers have largely ceased using Russian routes, non-aligned nations have maintained aviation connections with Moscow, citing safety and economic considerations.

The ongoing aerial campaign and counter-threats underscore the widening scope of the conflict beyond conventional ground operations, with both sides targeting infrastructure and civilian connectivity as strategic objectives.