Zelensky warns airlines of heightened danger in Russian airspace as Ukraine steps up drone strikes

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky told airlines that the risk of civilian flights over Russia has risen sharply as Kyiv intensifies drone operations against Russian targets. In his nightly video address, Zelensky said Ukraine does not aim at civilian aircraft but warned that "there will simply be drones in Russia's skies on a scale that has to be taken into account." He added that the country has formally notified the International Civil Aviation Organization of the danger.

Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said Ukraine wants to prevent unintended incidents and noted that the war is "returning home to Russia." The statement was posted on the ministry’s X account.

Airlines that continue to use Russian airspace, including carriers from Turkey, China and Gulf states, said they are closely monitoring the situation. Qatar Airways said its flight planning is guided by "rigorous and continuous monitoring of airspace security, safety assessments, and geopolitical developments," while FlyDubai said it will adjust schedules as needed.

Russia’s President Vladimir Putin described Zelensky’s comments as a "declaration of state terrorism" and warned that negotiations with Kyiv would not be possible. Russian officials also said they will increase strikes on Ukrainian infrastructure, with recent attacks killing 12 people and targeting power facilities.

Aviation risk advisory firm Osprey Flight Solutions warned that daily Ukrainian strikes deep inside Russian territory are likely to continue and that misidentification of aircraft could occur. Flight-tracking data showed several commercial flights still crossing Russian airspace on Wednesday.

The dispute comes amid broader tensions over the safety of civil aviation in conflict zones, recalling past incidents such as the 2014 downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17, for which a UN panel held Russia responsible.