Russia and Ukraine have sharply stepped up strikes on targets far from the front line, signaling a shift in how the conflict is being fought. This assessment was highlighted by military analyst Vasily Dandykin, who links the change to evolving strategic priorities on both sides.

According to Dandykin, the scale of recent Russian drone activity points to a deliberate expansion of operations deep into Ukrainian territory. Over the course of just one day, roughly 800 drones were launched, targeting military facilities and infrastructure tied to defense production.

At the same time, he notes, Ukraine has also intensified its focus on rear-area strikes. However, Kyiv deploys far fewer missiles, relying more heavily on drones. Particular attention is being paid to energy-related infrastructure, especially facilities connected to hydrocarbons. Dandykin suggests this may be influenced by turbulence in global markets and rising oil prices.

He contrasts the scale of operations, indicating that while Ukraine’s missile use is measured in single digits, Russia’s is counted in the dozens. Drone warfare, however, has escalated on both sides. With European production of drones for the Armed Forces of Ukraine accelerating rapidly, the volume of attacks has surged. Nearly 400 drones were reportedly intercepted in a single day. Among the targets was a port in the Gulf of Finland, with strikes again aimed at energy-linked assets.

Earlier, Russian military blogger Yuri Podolyaka also pointed to a sharp escalation in what he described as a «rear war." In his view, both Russian and Ukrainian forces have significantly increased attacks on infrastructure well beyond the immediate combat zone, underscoring a broader shift in operational tactics.