Full Breakdown
Ukraine Launches 40-Day SBU Operation to Pressure Russia
6/26/2026, 10:05:29 PM
Operation Overview
President Volodymyr Zelensky approved a 40-day influence campaign for the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU). The plan, termed “mid-range” and “long-range sanctions,” seeks to intensify drone strikes on Russian military and logistical sites to force Moscow to end the war.
Recent Drone Campaign
In the weeks before the announcement, Ukrainian drones hit the Moscow oil refinery, the Kerch Bridge and several Crimean sites, prompting Russia to shift air-defence assets toward those high-value targets.
Key Actors
The operation is directed by President Volodymyr Zelensky, coordinated with Acting SBU chief Major General Yevhenii Khmara, and supported by Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov. The SBU’s Alpha unit leads drone strikes, while Russia-appointed Crimean head Sergey Aksyonov announced a state of emergency.
Timeline
On 17 June Defence Minister Fedorov warned “Hell is beginning” in Crimea. On 26 June Zelensky unveiled the 40-day plan, Ukraine launched a large drone wave, and Russia reported intercepting 660 drones; Crimea then declared a state of emergency.
Data Snapshot
Russia claims 660 drones were shot down over Moscow, Belgorod, Kursk, Crimea and the Black Sea, while Ukraine mentions only dozens launched. Alpha is credited with the highest neutralisations of Russian personnel and equipment; strikes target fuel depots, rail hubs and the Kerch Bridge.
Official Statements & Responses
Zelensky said the operation is meant to “influence the aggressor state” and force a negotiated end, praising SBU drone results. Fedorov said logistics are cut off and Crimea isolated. Russia’s defence ministry reported intercepting hundreds of drones, and Crimea’s administration invoked a state of emergency.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I approved a 40-day influence operation for the Service against the aggressor state aimed at compelling it to end the war,” — Volodymyr Zelensky, President of Ukraine
- “For several months in a row, the SBU has demonstrated the highest performance in defending Ukraine’s positions on the front lines through the use of various types of drones,” — Volodymyr Zelensky
- “Hell is beginning,” — Mykhailo Fedorov, Defence Minister of Ukraine
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Russian claims of 660 drones intercepted contrast with Ukrainian references to “dozens” launched, leaving the true scale of the attack unverified. Independent assessment of damage to Russian logistics and the exact composition of the drone wave is lacking.
What’s Next
Ukraine intends to sustain the 40-day pressure, aiming to fully isolate Crimea, further degrade the Kerch Bridge and strain Russian supply lines. Analysts note that continued Russian air-defence redeployment may expose vulnerabilities elsewhere, while diplomatic channels monitor any escalation triggered by the intensified strikes.
