In a bold move to undermine Russia's military prowess and sow discontent among its residents, Ukraine has launched a series of unprecedented deep drone strikes into Russian territory. These strikes, carried out on September 1st, targeted energy infrastructure, including power plants and fuel depots near Moscow and the Tver Oblast.

The attack on the Kashira Power Plant near Moscow left witnesses in disbelief, capturing the attention of both domestic and international audiences. Videos posted on social media showed a Russian eyewitness expressing shock and confusion as a drone soared over the power plant. It was the first time Ukraine had specifically targeted Russian electricity generation facilities, marking a significant escalation in their efforts to bring the war closer to Russian soil.

Experts believe that Ukraine's long-range drone strikes serve multiple purposes. By targeting power generators and fuel depots, Ukraine aims to disrupt Russian logistics, hamper their ability to launch air strikes, and limit fuel and electricity supplies to military facilities and the defense industry. Ukrainian military expert Dmytro Zhmailo emphasized the goal of breaking Russia's military machine and making them feel the lack of essential resources.

This recent wave of drone attacks comes on the heels of Ukraine's surprise ground incursion into Russia's Kursk Oblast. By striking deeper into Russia and directly impacting its energy infrastructure, Ukraine seeks to turn the tables on Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukrainian territory. The aim is to create a sense of vulnerability and uncertainty among the Russian population, challenging President Vladimir Putin's image as a strong leader who brings stability.

While the immediate impact of these drone attacks is limited in curbing Russia's military firepower and energy stability, Ukrainian experts and officials are advocating for access to long-range missile systems like ATACMS and Storm Shadow. The outgoing Biden administration is reportedly close to approving the supply of long-range JASSM cruise missiles to Ukraine, which would significantly enhance its ability to strike deep into Russian territory.

The strategic significance of these drone strikes extends beyond military objectives. Ukraine's deliberate targeting of Russian infrastructure aims to undermine Russia's economy and generate social tensions. Attacks on oil refineries could decrease Russia's income from oil product sales, driving up prices and exacerbating dissatisfaction among the population. Furthermore, disrupting electricity supplies to military facilities and factories could further destabilize Russia's defense capabilities.

While the impact of these strikes on public sentiment in Russia remains uncertain, recent opinion polls indicate a rise in societal discontent. Surveys conducted by Russian polling agencies reveal an increase in dissatisfaction with Russian authorities since Ukraine's incursion into Kursk Oblast. However, polling methodology and potential manipulation by the Russian government must be taken into account when interpreting these numbers.

Ukraine's far-reaching drone strikes have undoubtedly shocked residents in Russia. While some may view these attacks as evidence of Russia's right cause, others may question the impact of the war on their daily lives. As Ukraine continues to push for permission from Western allies to strike Russian territory with long-range weapons, the geopolitical landscape in Eastern Europe remains tense, with potential consequences for both sides involved.