A recent Ukrainian drone attack has led to the destruction of over 40 Russian aircraft deep within Russian territory. This operation, described as a significant achievement by Ukraine’s Security Service, unfolded just hours before new peace talks were set to begin in Istanbul.
The attack took place on a Sunday afternoon, targeting military airfields in regions far from Ukraine, including Irkutsk, which is over 4,000 kilometers away. A military official, who requested anonymity, revealed that the operation took over a year and a half to plan and was personally overseen by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The official referred to it as an “extremely complex” mission that involved smuggling drones into Russia.
These drones were concealed in mobile wooden houses. At the right moment, the roofs of these houses were opened remotely, allowing the drones to take off and strike Russian bombers. Footage shared on social media showed drones launching from inside containers as Russian personnel attempted to intervene.
The drones successfully targeted 41 Russian planes, including A-50, Tu-95, and Tu-22M aircraft. These bombers have been instrumental for Russia in launching missile attacks against Ukraine. The Ukrainian Security Service claimed that this operation, codenamed "Web," destroyed about 34% of Russia’s fleet of air missile carriers, with damages estimated at $7 billion.
In response, Russia’s Defense Ministry acknowledged the attacks, confirming that they caused damage to aircraft and fires at air bases in multiple regions. The ministry also reported that strikes were repelled in other areas, including the Amur region in the Far East and in Ivanovo and Ryazan.
This drone strike coincided with Zelenskyy announcing a delegation would head to Istanbul for peace talks, led by Defense Minister Rustem Umerov. Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of protecting Ukraine’s independence and state.
On the same day, Russian officials reported explosions that caused two bridges to collapse and derailed trains in western Russia, resulting in casualties. The exact cause of these explosions remains unclear.
The attack has prompted significant military and political implications, with Ukrainian army commander Mykhailo Drapatyi resigning following the incident. His leadership had previously helped Ukraine regain territory on the eastern front.
As the conflict continues, both sides are engaged in a fierce battle, with Russia launching a record number of drones against Ukraine. The situation remains tense as the ongoing war shows no signs of abating, with both nations preparing for further confrontations.