Russia Grants Central Bank Authority to Shoot Down Drones Amid Rising Ukrainian Strikes

Russia has formally authorized its central bank and other financial institutions to shoot down drones, a sign of growing concern over Ukraine's expanding campaign of strikes deep inside Russian territory. The directive, which applies to facilities deemed critical to the financial system, reflects a broader effort to protect assets as the war enters a more volatile phase.

On Wednesday, a rocket hit a central bank branch in Russian-annexed Crimea, an attack that local officials denounced as an attempt by Ukraine to destabilize Russia's financial sector. The incident underscores the escalating risks to economic institutions, as Ukrainian forces increasingly target oil depots, military sites, and now financial infrastructure. In response, Moscow scaled back its annual Victory Day celebrations this year, citing security threats.

The authorization, while unusual, aligns with Russia's broader defensive posture. Across the country, drone attacks have become more frequent, with Ukrainian forces using long-range unmanned systems to hit targets hundreds of miles from the front lines. Analysts say the move could set a precedent for other state-owned entities to adopt similar measures, blurring the line between civilian and military operations.

Meanwhile, a senior Ukrainian commander told Reuters that Kyiv is approaching a “turning point” in the war, estimating that Ukraine has roughly six months to make meaningful battlefield gains in order to strengthen its negotiating position in any future peace talks. The statement highlights the urgency on both sides as the conflict grinds toward its third year.