Zelenskyy Declares Russian Airspace Unsafe for Civilian Flights

In a stark warning, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Russian airspace is now perilous for airlines, insurers, and travelers due to the ongoing conflict. In his address on September 1, 2026, he declared, "Today, we want to warn every airline that uses Russian airspace… it is becoming completely unsafe."

Zelenskyy emphasized that while Ukraine does not target civilian aircraft, the presence of drones in Russian skies poses significant risks. He remarked, "Drone-infested skies are no place for civilian aviation," highlighting the increasing frequency of Ukrainian drone activity as the war continues.

Recent escalations have resulted in tragic casualties, with at least 12 lives lost in Kyiv due to fresh Russian strikes on the same day. Zelenskyy reassured that Ukraine would consider removing its drones from Russian airspace for diplomatic purposes under specific conditions, but until then, he warned, "the safe days in Russia’s skies are over."

Source: www.thehindu.com