Zelensky Approves 40-Day SBU 'Influence Operation' to Pressure Russia, Building on Drone Strikes

On June 25, 2026, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced approval of a 40-day operation by the State Security Service (SBU), including its Alpha special operations center, explicitly aimed at pressuring Russia to end the war through an 'influence operation.' The plan follows reports on long-range and medium-range sanctions and leverages recent SBU drone successes against Russian targets. Multiple Ukrainian and international outlets confirmed the announcement via Zelensky's Telegram channel and official statements. The operation coincides with sustained Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian oil refineries and energy infrastructure, which have contributed to reported fuel shortages in parts of Russia, including Crimea. Reuters, The Guardian, Kyiv Independent, Ukrainska Pravda, and Kyiv Post all reported the development factually, noting it builds on asymmetric warfare tactics without detailing classified targets. Broader context includes ongoing Ukrainian long-range strikes and Russian defensive adjustments, amid fragmented Western coverage of escalation dynamics such as NATO eastern flank concerns raised in prior intelligence assessments. While ZeroHedge framed the move as heightening WW3 risks, corroborated reporting emphasizes the operation's stated goal of compelling negotiations rather than direct conventional escalation.