Putin calls Zelenskyy's airspace warning "state terrorism" as Aeroflot shares drop 5%
Russian President Vladimir Putin labeled Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's warning about Russian airspace as "state terrorism," after which shares of national carrier Aeroflot fell 5% on the stock market.
Putin's sharp response
Russian President Vladimir Putin publicly condemned a warning issued by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy concerning Russian airspace, describing it as "state terrorism." The remark points to a further escalation in rhetoric between the two countries amid the ongoing war.
Aeroflot shares fall
Shortly after Putin's statement, shares of Russia's national airline Aeroflot dropped by 5% on the stock exchange. The decline suggests investors are concerned about potential consequences for Russia's aviation sector stemming from continued threats and uncertainty surrounding airspace safety.
Diverging approaches to Russian airspace
European and US airlines have already been avoiding Russian airspace for some time, citing security concerns and sanctions. Meanwhile, carriers from China, Turkey, and Gulf states continue to fly through Russian territory despite the warnings. This divide highlights how differently airlines around the world are assessing the risks associated with flying over Russia.
