Ukraine Strikes Russian Satellite Communications Centre for Second Time, Zelenskyy Confirms

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has confirmed that Ukrainian forces struck the Dubna Satellite Communications Centre in Russia's Moscow region for the second time. The strike is part of Ukraine's ongoing campaign to disrupt Russian military communications and reconnaissance operations deep inside Russian territory.

In a post on social media platform X, Zelenskyy stated, 'Today, our long-range sanctions against Russia for this war once again reached the Dubna space communications center in the Moscow region.' He noted that the facility is located more than 500 kilometres from the Ukrainian border, highlighting Ukraine's growing ability to conduct operations far from its own territory.

The Dubna Satellite Communications Centre (SCC) is a branch of the Russian Satellite Communications Company (RSSC). It has been operational since 1980 and is Russia's largest ground station, linking terrestrial networks with satellites in orbit. Originally commissioned by the Soviet Union as a broadcasting hub for the 1980 Moscow Olympics, it later hosted hotlines between the Kremlin, Washington, and European capitals.

Zelenskyy described the centre as 'a special satellite communications facility used, in particular, for reconnaissance and for coordinating the activity of Russia's occupation contingent in Ukraine.' The Ukrainian president emphasised that strikes on such facilities are intended to degrade Russia's ability to conduct its invasion.

Kyiv has intensified its attacks on Russian military and energy infrastructure. Last week, Ukrainian forces also struck the Dubna and Vladimir space communication centres. 'Recently, our Defense Forces of Ukraine already reached four such Russian centers, not only in the Moscow region but also in the Vladimir region,' Zelenskyy said, thanking the military for the drone strike. He added that similar operations are being prepared against other such facilities.

In response, Russia's Defence Ministry reported that it intercepted 660 Ukrainian drones in an overnight attack across 12 regions, Russian-held Crimea, and the Black and Azov seas on June 26. This was one of the largest drone attacks launched by Ukraine.

Separately, Zelenskyy approved a 40-day campaign last week aimed at 'influencing' Russia to end the war, which has now lasted over four years. The conflict continues with no immediate signs of resolution.