Ukraine adviser warns of mutual destruction in long-range strike escalation

Ukrainian presidential adviser Sergei Beskrestnov warned that Russia and Ukraine are escalating long-range strikes, increasing risks to civilians, while neither side can achieve full advantage, and he cautioned that the war could lead to mutual destruction. Beskrestnov expressed concern about Kyiv's prospects this winter, proposing evacuation of elderly residents in case Russian attacks disable the capital's power supply. He said Ukraine plans to launch up to 1,000 drones per night against Russian economic and military targets, and noted a critical shortage of Patriot interceptor missiles. Russia has developed new-generation drones and missiles with Chinese jet engines, launching 2,500 Shahed drones in August, with plans for 36,000 in 2027. Beskrestnov called the war "pointless," saying both countries will have destroyed economies and infrastructure, and urged Russia to stop fighting.