The picture shows a major Ukrainian drone attack on Russian bombers
Ukraine has launched its most ambitious drone operation yet, targeting four Russian airbases deep in Siberia. Over 117 drones struck military sites, damaging more than 40 strategic bombers. The attacks come just days before peace talks are set to begin in Istanbul, raising tensions in the three-year conflict.
Hidden Drones, Strategic Hits
Ukrainian intelligence revealed the operation was codenamed “Spiderweb.” The attack involved drones smuggled into Russia months in advance. They were hidden inside wooden sheds mounted on trucks parked near Russian airfields. A remote-triggered mechanism released the drones through retractable shed roofs, initiating the strike.
Targets included key Russian military aircraft like Tu-95 and Tu-22 bombers, commonly used to launch long-range missiles at Ukrainian cities. The SBU, Ukraine’s domestic security agency, estimated the damage to be worth $7 billion.
Dramatic Footage and Confirmed Blazes
Videos from multiple Russian bases show burning aircraft and plumes of smoke. Some clips, reportedly filmed in Olenegorsk and Irkutsk, depict flames engulfing bombers, confirming the scale of the destruction.
One video showed a Russian serviceman at a burning airbase exclaiming, “It’s f**ed here,”* with several aircraft in flames behind him.
Zelenskyy Oversees "Unique" Operation
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy personally supervised the operation. In a Sunday address, he praised the coordination, calling it a “completely unique operation.”
He confirmed the planning took over 18 months and involved agents operating in three Russian time zones. Ukrainian personnel were extracted before the attack began. Zelenskyy also noted that 34% of Russia’s strategic cruise missile carriers were hit in the strikes.
Russian Response and Arrests
Russia’s Ministry of Defence confirmed that several aircraft were damaged in Murmansk and Irkutsk regions. They claimed no casualties occurred but announced arrests of alleged participants in the sabotage.
Meanwhile, Russian Telegram channels showed civilians and military personnel scrambling to stop drones from launching. One such clip showed people climbing onto lorries to interfere with drone operations.
Drone Warfare Redefines Battlefield Dynamics
Since the start of the war in February 2022, Ukraine has relied heavily on drones to counter Russia’s superior firepower. This latest attack highlights how Ukraine is expanding its drone capabilities, even striking targets over 2,500 miles away. Earlier this year, Ukraine revealed the development of a drone with a 3,000km range, although no technical details were shared.
Rail Explosions and Further Sabotage
In addition to the drone strikes, explosions rocked Russia’s Kursk and Bryansk regions. Two bridges collapsed, derailing trains and killing seven. Investigators are treating these as acts of terrorism.
The Kremlin confirmed President Vladimir Putin was briefed overnight. No group has taken responsibility, but Ukraine has previously targeted railways used to transport troops and weapons.
Russia Launches Record Drone Assault
In retaliation or perhaps coordination, Russia launched 472 drones and seven missiles overnight—the largest single drone attack since the war began. Ukraine reported 12 soldiers killed and more than 60 injured in a missile strike on a training base.
Peace Talks Amid Escalation
Despite the violence, both sides are preparing for talks in Istanbul. President Zelenskyy confirmed that Ukraine will participate, led by Defence Minister Rustem Umerov. Ukraine’s demands include:
- Complete ceasefire
- Return of abducted children
- Release of prisoners
Ukraine will not recognize Russian control over occupied territories and insists on no military restrictions in any peace agreement. They are also seeking reparations for war damages.
International Pressure Mounts
U.S. President Donald Trump has pushed for an end to the conflict, warning he may pull support if talks stall. That would leave Ukraine heavily reliant on European aid.
As the two sides prepare to meet, the latest drone assault signals Ukraine’s intent to negotiate from a position of strength. The coming days may determine whether diplomacy can catch up with the escalating warfront.
