Ukraine has reportedly dealt a massive blow to Russia’s air power in what observers are calling one of the most audacious drone attacks in modern warfare.
The operation, which targeted multiple Russian airbases deep inside the country, is said to have destroyed or damaged military aircraft worth an estimated $7 billion.
According to Ukrainian officials, the large-scale strike was executed ahead of critical ceasefire negotiations in Istanbul.
Drones hit airbases in Belaya (Siberia), Olenya (near the Arctic), Ivanovo, and Dyagilevo (east of Moscow), with the Belaya base suffering the worst damage — reportedly over 40 aircraft were hit, igniting large fires across the facility.
Though the footage of the attacks could not be independently verified, Russia’s defence ministry admitted that several aircraft caught fire and confirmed the detention of some suspects.
Regional confirmations came from Russian governors in Irkutsk and Murmansk, who acknowledged the attacks and assured the public that air defences had responded effectively.
The drone operation marks a new level of reach for Ukrainian forces, far beyond prior assaults near the front lines.
Yet, on the same day, Ukraine endured a tragic missile strike on one of its training units, resulting in 12 soldiers killed and over 60 wounded, prompting the resignation of Ground Forces Commander Mykhailo Drapaty.
As the military conflict escalates, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that Defence Minister Rustem Umerov would lead Kyiv’s delegation to the Istanbul ceasefire talks.
Ukraine demands an unconditional ceasefire, the return of POWs, and the repatriation of abducted children.
Russia is sending its delegation but has not disclosed its negotiation terms.
Meanwhile, on Russian soil, two bridge collapses over the weekend — one in Bryansk, killing seven train passengers, and another in Kursk, injuring a freight train driver — are being treated as possible terrorist acts.
Adding to the tensions, Ukraine’s air force reported a record 472 drones and 7 missiles launched by Russia in a single night — the highest since the war began.
With intensifying battlefield dynamics and impending peace talks, the future of the war remains uncertain.
