Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called on airlines to steer clear of Russian airspace, warning that Ukraine's escalating drone operations are making the skies increasingly unsafe.
Key facts
- Zelensky urged airlines to avoid Russian airspace, according to the BBC and CNBC.
- He warned that expanding Ukrainian drone operations are making the skies increasingly unsafe.
- Chinese and Gulf state airlines are among those still using Russian airspace, the BBC reported.
- Russia has said it will intensify its own attacks on Ukraine.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called on airlines to avoid Russian airspace, warning that Ukraine’s expanding drone operations are making the skies increasingly unsafe, according to reports from the BBC and CNBC.
Zelensky’s appeal comes as Ukraine escalates its drone campaign. CNBC reported that he warned the growing scale of these operations is raising the risk to aircraft flying over Russian territory.
Despite the warning, some carriers continue to fly through Russian airspace. According to the BBC, Chinese and Gulf state airlines are among those still using the routes.
The situation is set against a backdrop of intensifying hostilities. The BBC reported that Russia has said it will step up its own attacks on Ukraine, signalling further escalation on both sides.
The combination of expanding Ukrainian drone activity and Russia’s pledge to intensify its strikes underscores the heightened dangers in the region’s skies, a concern Zelensky has now directed squarely at the aviation industry.
Why it matters
Warnings about airspace safety carry direct consequences for international travellers and the airlines that route through affected regions. With some carriers still flying over Russia, Zelensky's appeal highlights the tension between commercial flight decisions and the risks posed by an escalating conflict.
Frequently asked questions
Why is Zelensky telling airlines to avoid Russian airspace?
He warned that Ukraine's expanding drone operations are making the skies increasingly unsafe, according to the BBC and CNBC.
Which airlines are still using Russian airspace?
According to the BBC, Chinese and Gulf state airlines are among those still using Russian airspace.
How is Russia responding?
The BBC reported that Russia has said it will intensify its own attacks on Ukraine.