Ukraine's Deep Strikes Aim to Instill Fear and Attrition in Russia

In a rare glimpse behind the scenes, Al

In a rare glimpse behind the scenes, Al Jazeera was granted access to a Ukrainian long-range drone unit, a key component in Kyiv's strategy to strike deep into Russian territory. The unit's mission is twofold: to inflict significant losses on Russian assets and to sow a climate of anxiety among the Russian populace.

The operators, who spoke on condition of anonymity for security reasons, described their work as a high-stakes chess game played out over hundreds of kilometers. Each mission requires meticulous planning, with drones flying low to evade radar and navigating through contested airspace. The psychological dimension is as crucial as the physical destruction, they said, with every successful hit sending a clear message that no corner of Russia is beyond reach.

Ukraine's long-range strike capability has grown steadily, with drones now reaching targets deep inside Russia, including oil refineries and military installations. These attacks have forced Moscow to divert resources to air defense, complicating its military logistics. For Kyiv, this is a war of attrition, where each strike chips away at Russia's ability to sustain its offensive.

Analysts note that the strategy carries risks, including

Analysts note that the strategy carries risks, including the potential for escalation. Yet Ukrainian officials argue that such actions are necessary to level the playing field, as they lack the long-range missiles that Russia possesses. The drone unit's commander, a man with a calm demeanor, emphasized that their goal is not merely symbolic. "We aim to degrade Russian capabilities and make their leadership reconsider the cost of this war," he said.

The impact is felt far beyond the blast sites. Social media in Russia has been abuzz with reports of explosions and drone sightings, fueling public unease. For Ukrainians, these strikes are a morale booster, a sign that their military can strike back despite the odds. As the war enters its third year, both sides are locked in a battle of endurance, and Ukraine's long-range drones are proving to be a potent tool in that fight.