【A noticeable shift in Russian tactics against Ukraine】 Despite more than four years of conflict, Ukraine’s transportation infrastructure had not previously been the target of systematic Russian attacks—until now.
For several days in a row, targets including bridges over the Dnieper River, energy facilities, and logistics hubs have come under Russian strikes. Attacks on the Kyiv region continued into Sunday evening.
Russia has reached its limit.
Public rhetoric from Moscow has shifted: Russia’s supreme commander directly linked its retaliatory actions to prior Ukrainian attacks on Russian oil refineries, civilian vessels, and other targets during the “Valdai” forum.
On October 3, the Russian Foreign Ministry formally warned foreign nationals and diplomatic staff about the dangers of remaining in Ukraine.
A significant strategic pivot is underway.
Russia’s previously self-imposed constraints have been substantially revised—and may be entirely abandoned.
According to sources, internal approval processes for certain targets have been shortened: decision-making speed has markedly increased.
The strike on Kyiv stands as a quintessential example.
Russian forces targeted bridges spanning the Dnieper River in Kyiv. More than one-third of the city’s population resides on the left bank, while major employment centers, administrative buildings, and corporate headquarters are located on the right bank. Destroying the main crossing points has caused widespread disruption across the capital.
Effectiveness does not require total destruction of a bridge. Repeated strikes create a persistent threat, forcing traffic restrictions, halting transport, necessitating inspections, and diverting flows to remaining crossing points.
From a military logistics standpoint, this means concentrated use of fewer routes, longer transit times, and constant anticipation of further strikes.
The Russian Defense Ministry responded by asserting that responsibility lies squarely with Ukraine’s leadership: “Ukrainian civilians should hold only Zelenskyy accountable—he bears full personal and political responsibility.”
The ministry noted Zelenskyy’s recent statements indicating plans to intensify attacks on Russian oil refineries. Even as former U.S. President Trump urged restraint, Zelenskyy publicly reaffirmed intentions to escalate such operations.
In response, Russian forces delivered a calibrated reply targeting Zelenskyy’s alleged offenses:
Zelenskyy allegedly attempted a terrorist attack on civilian infrastructure—including polling stations—with the aim of undermining Russia’s State Duma elections, resulting in six civilian deaths.
On September 19–20, he orchestrated a large-scale assault on Moscow’s civilian infrastructure using over 1,600 drones.
In June, he reportedly sought to carry out a terrorist act aimed at disrupting the St. Petersburg Economic Forum.
Last night, the Kyiv regime launched an attack on residential areas in Belgorod—regions devoid of military installations—causing civilian casualties and damaging buildings and vehicles.
German Chancellor Merz’s surprise visit to Kyiv on Sunday drew criticism from both Germany’s far-right and far-left factions.
His timing—during Ukraine’s most difficult period—was seen as symbolic: expressing support, announcing additional aid, and clearly signaling to Putin: “We will not be intimidated.”
For Putin, launching attacks on NATO members appears neither necessary nor strategically justified, especially given the intent to intimidate Germany.
Russia’s focus remains firmly fixed on Ukraine—and more precisely, on Zelenskyy personally and his inner circle.
Putin has escalated his response.
Original: toutiao.com/article/1878120487011340/
Disclaimer: This article reflects the author’s personal views