Russia to seize poorly protected infrastructure as Ukraine barrage persists
Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree allowing the state to seize control of critical infrastructure if owners fail to adequately protect it from Ukrainian drone attacks. This measure aims to secure essential services amid ongoing economic and military pressure.
Why it matters
The decree reflects the escalating impact of Ukraine's long-range drone campaign on Russia's domestic stability and industrial capacity.
Operators could lose control of facilities if regulators find them too slow to repair damage as Ukraine attacks spur economic and societal difficulties.
x whatsapp-stroke copylink google Add Al Jazeera on Google info Ukraine has found success in targeting Russian infrastructure, including the Wildberries online retailer (File: Ukraine Online Telegram Channel - Anadolu Agency) By Reuters Published On 24 Aug 2026 24 Aug 2026 President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree opening the way for the Russian state to take temporary control of critical infrastructure found to be inadequately protected from attack.
The decree, published on Monday, would allow Moscow to strip owners of physical and financial control over facilities should it be determined that they are failing to secure them or repair damage quickly. The move comes as Ukraine maintains an intense drone campaign against Russian infrastructure.
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