Why Russia may be feeling a greater threat from Ukraine

Why Russia may be feeling a greater threat from Ukraine

From Today Explained by Elex Air Media

May 8, 2026 · 10 min

About this episode

The episode discusses how Russia's perception of threat from Ukraine has evolved into a direct challenge to its stability and security.

Russia’s sense of threat from Ukraine has shifted from a border conflict to a direct challenge to its domestic stability, industrial base, and even the personal security of its leadership. Direct Threats to the Russian Heartland Ukraine’s transition from defensive maneuvers to a sophisticated "deep strike" campaign has fundamentally altered Russian security perceptions: Targeting Moscow & Key Cities: Ukraine has launched massive drone attacks on Moscow and other major cities. In May 2026, these raids reached unprecedented frequency, causing temporary flight restrictions at Moscow’s airports and forcing the Kremlin to implement internet and GPS shutdowns within Russia to disrupt drone guidance. Victory Day Paranoia: The iconic May 9th Victory Day parade has become a symbol of this vulnerability. In 2026, reports indicated a diminished parade with no major military hardware on display—partly due to frontline losses and partly due to fears that Ukrainian long-range missiles or drones would strike the event itself. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/today-explained--6659607/support . Don’t miss our latest episodes! Please follow me to stay…

Topics covered

  • Russia
  • Ukraine
  • security threat
  • drone attacks
  • Victory Day
  • military strategy

Keywords

  • Russia
  • Ukraine
  • drone attacks
  • Victory Day
  • security
  • military strategy

Mentioned in this episode

Places: Russia, Ukraine, Moscow

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