Ukraine intercepts over half of jet-powered Shahed drones, Zelenskyy says

What Happened

In an evening address reported by Ukrainska Pravda, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Ukraine is currently intercepting 55% of Russian jet-powered Shahed drones and more than 90% of conventional Shahed drones. He stated that more than 2,730 jet-powered Shaheds were launched in September, with over 1,500 shot down or jammed, while acknowledging that a significant number still reach their targets. Zelenskyy also said that 'many intelligence agencies have information that the Russians want to expand their war and their activities to other countries, possibly other regions', and called for joint, proactive defence. He announced that a 12th Drone Deal will be signed with a 'powerful state' in the coming weeks.

Key Actors

Why It Matters

The reported 55% interception rate for jet-powered Shaheds contrasts with the over 90% rate for conventional Shaheds, indicating that Russia’s faster, jet-powered drone variant is placing greater strain on Ukrainian air defences. Zelenskyy’s warning that Russian activity could expand to other countries, attributed to multiple intelligence agencies, frames the conflict as requiring broader international defensive cooperation. The forthcoming 12th Drone Deal also signals continued efforts to strengthen Ukraine’s drone and counter-drone capabilities.

Watch For

Monitor the announcement of the 12th Drone Deal signatory and its terms in the coming weeks, as well as October figures on Russian Shahed launches and Ukrainian interception rates. Watch for any Ukrainian or allied intelligence statements that corroborate Zelenskyy’s claim about Russian intentions to expand the war to other countries or regions.