Zelensky: We are preparing to expand our long-range strikes in response to Russian attacks

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on Saturday his approval for new long-range Ukrainian operations in response to Russian strikes.

Zelensky stated that Ukraine is preparing to expand its long-range capabilities without revealing details about the new operations or their objectives.

He added that Kyiv is working on deploying solutions that have proven effective in downing Shahed jet drones and expanding their production, noting the "setting of new priorities for military operations on the front."

The intensity of fighting between Russia and Ukraine escalated on Saturday, with Moscow announcing it had achieved field progress and controlled more than 5,300 square kilometers and 220 towns since the beginning of the year, coinciding with the Russian Defense Ministry's announcement of downing 344 Ukrainian drones overnight and targeting ships and logistical facilities in Black Sea ports, while Kyiv reported the killing and wounding of more than 1,500 Russian soldiers in the past 24 hours.

In light of the front lines remaining largely static, Russia and Ukraine have intensified their long-range airstrikes in recent months, with Kyiv targeting Russian oil infrastructure and warehouses belonging to e-commerce companies, in an effort to increase the costs incurred by Moscow due to the ongoing war.