russians are terrified about their airports closing (video commentary)

09/05/2026

This week, President Zelenskyy announced something I had suspected might be coming for a while.

Ukraine is warning airlines and insurers that Ukrainian drones are making Russian airspace increasingly unsafe, and that the skies over Russia could effectively close.

I actually asked Zelenskyy about this possibility in person ten days ago. He told me he knew nothing about it. Ten days later, here we are!

I genuinely think this could become one of the most economically damaging consequences Russia has faced since the invasion began, perhaps even more significant than the attacks on its oil infrastructure.

But the psychological impact could be just as important. If airports repeatedly close, ordinary Russians may suddenly find holidays, foreign travel and even journeys across their own enormous country becoming much more difficult.

This story is changing incredibly quickly. When I recorded this video at six o’clock this morning, Air Tanzania had just suspended its direct service between Dar es Salaam and Moscow. Within hours, it announced that the route would resume. That reversal alone shows how rapidly airlines are reassessing the risks and how uncertain Russian aviation is becoming.

I really hope you enjoy this report.

I have one small favour to ask. If you have a moment, please leave a comment telling me what you found most interesting. I genuinely love reading your thoughts, and it also makes a huge difference in helping the video reach more people.

Thank you so much for watching, and have a lovely day.