Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on Thursday that Ukraine has developed a weapon capable of striking a target 700km (approximately 400 miles) away. This statement comes a day after an airport in Russia's Pskov region near the Estonian and Latvian borders was hit by a wave of drone attacks that damaged four Il-76 military transport planes. Zelensky indicated that the weapon was produced by Ukraine's Ministry of Strategic Industries, but did not provide further details.
Though Kyiv officials typically neither confirm nor deny involvement in attacks on Russian soil, Zelensky's comments are the clearest suggestion yet that Ukraine was responsible for the airport strike. The attack led to the closure of Pskov airport, although it has since reopened, according to Russian officials.
Context and Implications
This news indicates a significant escalation in the ongoing 18-month conflict between Russia and Ukraine. It also underscores Ukraine's growing military capabilities and its willingness to extend its reach deep into Russian territory, both militarily and politically.
The recent events should be understood within the broader framework of Ukraine's strategy to increase domestic pressure on Russia. According to the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), Ukraine aims to "erode Russian morale and increase pressure on its commanders." The strategy aims to reach a "tipping point where combat power and morale may begin to break," IISS added in their analysis.
What does this mean?
For Russia, these developments could potentially strain its military capabilities and create internal political pressure. The Ukrainian counteroffensive that was launched in June is reportedly making gains, a factor that Russia will have to account for in its military calculations.
For Ukraine, developing long-range capabilities might serve as a deterrent but also comes with the risk of escalating the conflict further, which could draw in other regional and global powers.
Internationally, this could trigger concerns about an escalation that could go beyond the borders of the two nations involved, especially considering the affected Russian airport's proximity to Estonia and Latvia, two NATO member states.
For the broader international community, including countries that have thus far remained neutral or minimally involved, the escalation and Ukraine's apparent increase in military capabilities could necessitate a reevaluation of diplomatic strategies and alliances.
In summary, the apparent advancements in Ukraine's military capabilities and its willingness to use them deep inside Russian territory mark a critical juncture in the ongoing conflict, with implications for both regional and global stability.
Transports, symbolic target at this point. Still adds to the list of jurisdictions clamoring for IADS gear sorely needed at the front.
Well, the pressure is needed, but I am concerned. A fractured Russia might be significantly more dangerous in the long run if stockpiles of weapons grade uranium and plutonium get sold or stolen.
I am delighted.