Ukraine escalates drone warfare against Russian maritime and aviation targets

Ukraine is intensifying its maritime campaign in the Black and Azov Seas, utilizing long-range drones to target vessels linked to Russia. In a recent 12-day period, approximately 172 ships were hit. These attacks have primarily targeted oil tankers and cargo vessels, including elements of the Russian ‘shadow fleet’ used to bypass Western price caps. The increased activity is forcing Russia to enhance protection for its merchant fleet and is creating high-risk zones for international shipping.

Parallel to maritime operations, Ukrainian officials reportedly proposed a plan to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy involving mass attacks on Moscow-area airports using AI-equipped autonomous drone swarms. The objective of such a tactic would be to disrupt international aviation services operating in the Russian capital. While Zelenskyy expressed concerns regarding the potential for civilian casualties and risks to passenger aircraft, preparations for these advanced technological strikes reportedly progressed through the spring as a means to increase pressure on Russia.