Zelensky warns airlines: Russian airspace 'totally dangerous'

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned airlines on Tuesday to "re-evaluate the risk" of flying to or over Russia, stating the country's airspace is becoming "totally dangerous" amid intensified drone attacks on Russian infrastructure. Ukraine formally notified the International Civil Aviation Organization on Thursday that Russian airspace is unsafe for civilian aviation due to increased military activity. The warning primarily targets Turkish, Emirati, Qatari, Chinese, and other carriers, as European and American airlines have avoided Russian airspace since February 2022. Aviation expert Wouter Dewulf says the threat mainly affects planes taking off or landing at Russian airports, not those at cruising altitude. He believes Zelensky aims to disrupt major Russian airports and pressure the public, though he doubts the president would target civilian aircraft given his need for international support.