Budanov warned Russia of a harsh response: "The sky is no longer safe"

Ukraine will respond harshly and proportionately to Russia's massive air attacks, and Russian airspace can no longer be considered safe. This was stated by the Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, Kyrylo Budanov.

According to him, Moscow deliberately chose further escalation of the war, continuing strikes on Ukrainian cities, civilian and critical infrastructure.

"Guided by the right to self-defense, Ukraine will give a harsh and proportional response. Russian skies are no longer safe," — Budanov stated.

He added that Ukraine officially warns international airlines, insurance companies and partners about the changed risks. As long as Russia continues the war, Ukrainian long-range strike capabilities will operate in Russian airspace, the Head of the OP stressed.

The statement came after a massive Russian attack on September 1. On the night of Tuesday, Russia used 218 drones of various types, ballistic, cruise, anti-ship and anti-radar missiles against Ukraine. Air Force reported hits at 28 locations.

Russian attacks continued during the day. From 06:30 to 18:00, Russian troops launched another 99 attack drones, 72 of which were jet-powered. Ukrainian air defense shot down or suppressed 82 of them.

Earlier in the evening, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also warned foreign airlines and insurers about growing risks of flights in Russian airspace. According to him, Ukraine does not consider civil aviation as a target, but the number of Ukrainian drones and missiles over Russian territory will increase due to continued Russian aggression.

Thus, the statements by Zelenskyy and Budanov contain a direct warning to the international aviation market to take into account military risks when operating flights to Russia and over its territory.

Based on materials from: Kyrylo Budanov