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Zelensky Approves New Long-Range Strikes Against Russia
Developing
In Short: President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on Sept. 19 that he had approved new long-range operations in response to Russian attacks, aiming to expand Ukraine's capabilities for deep strikes against Russia.
During a meeting with military leadership, Zelensky said the focus was on updating Ukraine's Medical Forces, changing the approach to recruiting foreign fighters, and preparing for future deep strike campaigns.
Zelensky emphasized that these operations are part of what he calls 'long-range sanctions' against Moscow, in retaliation for Russian attacks on Ukraine.
The president noted that several Ukrainian systems designed to counter jet-powered Shahed-type drones have already proven effective in combat, with Raybird systems logging over 350,000 combat hours since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion.
Zelensky's decision came after receiving reports from Defense Minister Yevhen Khmara and Commander-in-Chief Mykhailo Drapatyi, indicating a coordinated military response to the ongoing conflict.
Russia has intensified its use of jet-powered drones and ballistic missiles throughout spring and summer 2026, targeting Ukraine's cities and energy infrastructure in preparation for another winter of devastating strikes.
What this adds
Russia held its first parliamentary election since the start of its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
Background
Volvo has unveiled new long-range plug-in hybrid powertrains for its XC60 and XC90 SUVs, significantly increasing their electric driving range.
What's still developing
- In July, Zelensky said Kyiv had updated its list of priority targets and was capable of striking more than 3,000 kilometers (1,860 miles) inside Russia.
- Some of the Yemeni nationals Russia plans to recruit for the war against Ukraine were born in 2006 and 2007, the Foreign Intelligence Service said.
- On the same day, Zelensky also claimed that Ukraine's new interceptor had succeeded in hitting two Russian Shaheds — including a jet-powered Geran-5 drone —in combat on Sept.