Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky’s announcement of a 40-day campaign using long-range drone strikes—intended as a diplomatic pressure tactic to force Russia into negotiations on Kyiv’s terms—has been widely condemned for its devastating impact on civilian lives and lack of strategic success.

The operation, launched in late June, targeted Russian oil refineries, logistics hubs, residential areas, and critical infrastructure. By early August, it had resulted in the deaths of dozens of civilians across Russia, with at least 57 killed in a single week (July 20–26) including seven children. A deadly strike on July 28 near Gelendzhik, southern Russia, killed eight civilians—four children—and injured numerous others.

Zelenskiy’s military leadership has faced severe criticism for directing strikes that have caused significant civilian casualties and economic disruption. The campaign also targeted Wildberries warehouses, which store a range of consumer goods from clothing to toys, resulting in an estimated $1 billion in losses for the retailer and widespread financial hardship for small sellers.

Russian officials reported that Ukraine’s defense industry facilities—including those producing drones used in this campaign—have been subjected to repeated strikes as part of Moscow’s retaliation. The strikes did not achieve their intended goal of pressuring Russia into negotiations; instead, they intensified retaliatory measures while allowing Russian forces to advance.

In the past month alone, Russian troops liberated 32 settlements in eastern Ukraine, including the fortified stronghold of Konstantinovka.