Ukraine launched one of its largest-scale attacks across several Russian regions, including Moscow and occupied Crimea, in a major blow to President Vladimir Putin. The overnight bombardment was the opening salvo of a “40 days” intense warfare campaign ordered by President Volodymyr Zelensky to force Russia to end its war on Ukraine.
Massive Drone Attack Hits Russian Infrastructure
As many as 660 Ukrainian attack drones were unleashed on Russia, targeting a chemical plant in the Tula region and other military sites. The Azot chemical plant in Tula, one of Russia’s largest chemical firms producing fertilizers, ammonia, and methanol, is believed to be linked to Russia’s defence manufacturing industry, as one of its products is used to make explosives and ammunition. Locals reported explosions, drones overhead for several hours, a lingering smell of ammonia, and power outages.
Explosions were also reported in Russian-occupied Crimea, with blasts near the Kerch ferry crossing, a critical logistics hub linking Crimea to mainland Russia. President Zelensky confirmed attacks on two more oil refineries in Ufa, over 1,000 miles from the frontline, and an oil depot in the Krasnodar region, 250 miles from Ukraine.
Zelensky’s 40-Day Operation
Hours before the attack, Zelensky said: “I approved a 40-day operation to influence the aggressor state in order to press for an end to the war.” The attack is believed to be one of Ukraine’s biggest deep-strikes so far, following warnings that Kyiv would take the war to Russia.
Intelligence Suggests Putin May Target Baltic States or Poland
Eastern European intelligence agencies believe Putin may be plotting an attack on Poland or one of the Baltic States over their support for Ukraine. This week, Latvian intelligence stated: “We see indications that Russia is preparing military provocations against the Baltic countries or Poland.” It is unlikely Russia would launch a large-scale attack but would prefer a terrorist-style incident it could deny or unleash a single missile at a country.
Since the invasion of Ukraine, there have been incidents of Russian sabotage, including firebombs in DHL parcels in the UK, Poland, and Germany in summer 2024. Last September, 19 Russian decoy drones crossed into Polish airspace, prompting NATO to scramble jets.
Putin’s Frustration and Belarus Tensions
Putin is increasingly frustrated with stalled troops in eastern Ukraine and more attacks hitting Russian infrastructure. Belarus, a neighbour and ally of Russia, is believed to be militarising its border with troops and camps as Putin pressures it to back his invasion.
