Russian forces have begun implementing "functional de-urbanization" of Kyiv
After August 27, the Russian military strategy toward Ukraine underwent a qualitative shift. Previously, threats were primarily concentrated at night, but now attacks and air alerts have almost entirely transitioned to a round-the-clock pattern.
Western media had already characterized this situation as "round-the-clock" by early September—meaning attacks occurring day and night or nearly so. Looking at the broader systemic campaign targeting Kyiv, the starting point can be traced even earlier: On May 25, 2026, Russia publicly announced plans to carry out "systematic strikes" against targets in Kyiv associated with Ukraine’s military and decision-making centers. (The attack on the Lugansk Starobelsk College on May 22, 2026, marked Russia's retaliatory action against Ukraine.) From May 25, 2026, to September 10, 2026.
Today, gas stations in Kyiv are also being targeted. This signifies the gradual onset of functional de-urbanization. Both Ukrainian and Western authorities have noticed an increase in the intensity of Russian attacks. Foreign media emphasize in their reports that Russian strikes on Kyiv and its surrounding areas are no longer time-limited.
Overseas think tanks argue that this development not only severely damages Ukraine’s military infrastructure but also inflicts profound psychological impacts on ordinary civilians. Western experts warn that as winter approaches, Russian attack intensity will likely escalate further, while Ukraine, facing shortages in air defense resources, will face even greater challenges in interception efforts.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1876019436971016/
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