From Crimea To Moscow: Ukraine Wins Drone War
- 20.05.2026, 12:32
The attack on the Russian capital was a convincing episode.
Ukraine is increasingly confidently taking the initiative in the drone war against Russia, striking key targets both on the frontline and deep in the Russian rear. This is according to a report by the analytical center Atlantic Council.
Last weekend, Moscow residents witnessed one of the largest Ukrainian drone attacks in the full-scale war. The strikes hit a number of facilities in and around the capital, particularly the Moscow oil refinery, whose operations were reportedly temporarily halted.
This was yet another episode in a campaign that analysts say shows the increasing effectiveness of Ukrainian strikes deep into Russian territory.
An important signal is also being called the recent shortened Victory Day celebrations in Moscow, which took place amid threats of drone attacks. According to observers, this was indirect evidence of increased pressure on the Russian security system, even in the capital.
Strikes on logistics
It is separately noted that Ukraine is systematically expanding the use of medium-range drones - from 20 to 200 kilometers from the front line. It is this zone that is critical for Russian logistics and air defense systems.
Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky has previously said that strikes on enemy logistics, warehouses and command posts, as well as on air defense elements, are one of the priorities.
The report also mentions that Ukraine is actively increasing drone production and introducing new technologies, including guidance systems based on artificial intelligence and satellite communications. Among such developments are drones that can hit targets at a considerable distance and control key supply routes.
Analysts note that medium- and long-range attacks are already affecting Russian military logistics, making it difficult to supply troops, particularly in southern areas, including the occupied territories of Ukraine and Crimea.
Some former Ukrainian officials also believe that the intensity of drone strikes is putting additional pressure on the Russian economy and military infrastructure, gradually shifting combat operations away from the Russian economy and military infrastructure. Meanwhile, the long-range Ukrainian strikes are doing serious damage to Putin's war machine deep inside Russia itself.
"The result is obvious: the pressure on Ukraine has stabilized, while the pressure on Russia has increased," commented former Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba.