Russia shifts to round-the-clock drone attacks on Kyiv, exhausting defenders

Russian forces have escalated drone strikes on Kyiv to a continuous, around-the-clock tempo, a tactical shift aimed at fatiguing Ukrainian air-defense personnel. This tactical change is assessed by the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) as part of a broader Russian strategy to force Ukraine's capitulation by spring 2027. The long-term strategic intent remains an analytical projection.

Russian forces have reportedly shifted to continuous, round-the-clock drone attacks on Kyiv, aiming to exhaust Ukrainian air defenses. Concurrently, Russia is increasingly mandating private firms to fund anti-drone defenses in Moscow, indicating sustained Ukrainian deep-strike capabilities and growing strain on Russian infrastructure protection. Both developments suggest an escalation in drone warfare tactics and defense strategies by both belligerents.