07:10 19-09-2025

Gladkov Explains Why Drones Cross Border Before Interception

Zеlеnskiу / Оfficiаl / Telegram

Belgorod governor Vyacheslav Gladkov said Ukrainian drones are intercepted only after descending to accessible altitude, stressing air defense units work nonstop.

Governor of Belgorod region Vyacheslav Gladkov explained why Ukrainian drones are not always intercepted immediately after crossing the border. He addressed the issue on September 18 during a live Q&A with residents, according to the regional government’s press service.

Responding to a local resident, Gladkov said the challenge lies in the altitude of the UAVs. He noted that Ukrainian drones often fly at heights where Russian air defense systems cannot engage instantly. They are targeted only when descending to an altitude accessible for interception.

The governor stressed that air defense units in Belgorod region operate around the clock, monitoring all objects approaching the border. The decision to destroy a target, he added, is made once it enters the strike zone.