Russia expands state control over infrastructure amid airport closures and missile strikes

Escalating hostilities between Russia and Ukraine have resulted in significant disruptions to infrastructure in both nations. In Russia, five airports—including Penza, Saratov, and Volgograd—temporarily suspended operations following Ukrainian attacks. While resort airports in Gelendzhik and Sochi resumed service, the Russian Federal Air Transport Agency (Rosaviatsiya) cited flight safety as the reason for the restrictions.

In response to these strikes, President Vladimir Putin signed a decree granting the state authority to take temporary control of critical infrastructure, such as energy, communications, and transport, if private owners fail to protect them from attacks. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated the measure addresses inadequate security measures against drones.

Simultaneously, Russia launched a massive missile and drone offensive against Ukraine, targeting nine cities including Kyiv, Poltava, and Odesa. The strikes hit industrial facilities, oil refineries, and energy infrastructure. Ukrainian authorities reported at least one death in the Zaporizhzhia region and approximately ten injuries across various regions, noting that residential buildings, schools, and health units were also damaged.