Zelenskyy threatens Russia with up to 1,000 drones daily

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has declared an intensified drone offensive against Russia, vowing to conduct up to 1,000 long-range attacks daily. This announcement signals a significant escalation in Ukraine's strategy to pressure Moscow by targeting its rear areas.

Zelenskyy stated that the current average of over 300 such attacks needs to increase substantially. He emphasized that Ukraine must maximize its use of weapons to counter Russian aggression. The ongoing strikes, which have targeted oil refineries, logistics hubs, and military installations, are designed to drive up the costs of Russia's war effort. While Russian President Vladimir Putin has acknowledged economic damage, he has downplayed its critical impact and, in turn, threatened Ukraine with more destructive attacks.

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The task is: 1,000 drones daily for long-range attacks against Russia. Currently, we carry out an average of over 300 such long-range attacks – this must increase.

Responding to Russia's "terror escalation," Zelenskyy asserted that Kyiv will retaliate. He also stressed the urgent need for Ukraine to accelerate its domestic production of interceptor missiles, particularly those designed to counter Russian drones. This focus on indigenous defense capabilities underscores Ukraine's commitment to self-reliance in its defense strategy.

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We will definitely find ways to block their other ports as well.

Zelenskyy further elaborated on the economic impact of Ukraine's strikes, noting that Russia is experiencing reduced gasoline supplies, lower exports, and diminished logistical capacity. He believes these losses are weakening Russia's war potential and warned that such consequences will continue unless Russia agrees to negotiate a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Ukraine has already successfully disrupted operations at Russia's crucial Black Sea port of Novorossiysk and intends to find ways to block other ports as well.

In parallel, Zelenskyy thanked the United States for being briefed on CIA Director John Ratcliffe's recent visit to Moscow. Ukraine had discussed the matter with the U.S. side prior to the visit, and Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for the "necessary tone" of the discussions with Russia, though he did not provide specific details.

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thank you for the necessary tone of the conversations with Russia.