Ukraine launches drone strikes in Russia to secure more aid

Ukraine's military conducted a drone strike on a weapons depot in Russia's Tver region, resulting in a significant explosion that was detectable from space. This attack is part of a broader strategy by Ukraine to disrupt Russian military logistics and resupply efforts, which could hinder Russia's ability to defend itself and conduct offensive operations in Ukraine. The Tver strike follows a previous operation in Russia's Kursk region, where Ukraine captured approximately 500 square miles of territory. Ukrainian officials argue that access to US-made long-range weapons would enhance their military capabilities and lead to more battlefield victories. The urgency of this request is heightened by the upcoming US elections, as a potential change in administration could impact the level of support for Ukraine. Despite the Biden administration's hesitance to escalate the conflict by allowing longer-range strikes, experts note that Russian responses have not escalated but rather adapted to the situation. The drone strikes are not isolated incidents; they are part of a consistent campaign targeting various military and logistical sites within Russia. This strategy aims to pressure Russia into negotiations to end the ongoing conflict. However, analysts caution that even with longer-range capabilities, Ukraine may not significantly alter the war's dynamics due to limited Russian targets and the ability of Russia to relocate its assets. Ultimately, Ukraine's continued drone operations reflect its determination to make the conflict costly for Russia while seeking to secure more military support from the US, which remains a critical factor in the ongoing war effort.