Ukraine Conducts Drone Attacks on Russian Targets

Ukraine has intensified its drone warfare, targeting refineries and other locations in Russia, marking a significant escalation in the conflict. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced a '40-day influence operation' aimed at pressuring Russia into a peace agreement. On Thursday, one of the largest drone attacks of the war occurred, affecting 12 regions in Russia and occupied Crimea. Russian authorities reported intercepting at least 660 Ukrainian drones, with explosions noted at a chemical plant in the Tula region. This follows a recent explosion at a major refinery in Moscow, which is expected to remain offline until 2027. Zelensky stated, 'If Ukraine burns, your Moscow will burn too,' emphasizing the ongoing challenges for Russia due to its refusal to engage in negotiations. Russian President Vladimir Putin acknowledged the impact of Ukraine's drone strikes but maintained that they would not destabilize Russian society. Meanwhile, U.S.-led diplomatic efforts regarding Ukraine have stalled, and the effectiveness of Zelensky's drone campaign in reviving peace talks remains uncertain. In Crimea, authorities have declared a state of emergency and halted fuel sales in response to the strikes. Ukraine is also targeting supply lines to Russian troops at the front, while Russian forces continue their operations in eastern Ukraine with slow progress and high casualties reported.