• Ukraine’s “Operation Spider’s Web” targeted five Russian airfields, damaging up to 50 aircraft and significantly impacting Russia’s long-range missile capabilities.
• The strikes, planned over 18 months, used drones launched from within Russian territory to bypass air defenses, causing an estimated $2–7 billion in damages.
• The operation raises tensions ahead of peace talks in Istanbul, with concerns it could complicate negotiations between Ukraine and Russia.

Ukraine launched a stunning series of drone strikes on Sunday, targeting five Russian military airfields in a bold operation that took over 18 months to plan. Dubbed “Operation Spider’s Web,” the attack reportedly destroyed or damaged as many as 50 Russian aircraft, including bombers used for long-range missile strikes. This unprecedented move underscores Ukraine’s determination to disrupt Russia’s military operations amid ongoing conflict.

Coordinated Drone Strikes Hit Deep in Russian Territory

The strikes, carried out by Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) using small drones launched from trucks, penetrated deep into Russian territory and targeted strategic airfields in Murmansk, Irkutsk, Ivanovo, Ryazan, and Amur. Videos circulating on social media showed drones taking off from trucks and striking Russian aircraft stationed on runways.

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called the operation an “absolutely brilliant result.” According to Zelenskyy, the mission took “one year, six months, and nine days” of meticulous planning. “These are Ukrainian actions that will undoubtedly be in history books,” he said in a statement.

Ukraine’s SBU claimed the strikes destroyed or damaged 34% of Russia’s strategic bombers, estimating total damages at $7 billion. However, other analysts place the figure closer to $2 billion.

Russia Responds, Confirms Damage

Russia’s defense ministry confirmed the strikes and accused Ukraine of conducting a “terrorist act.” While Russian officials said their forces repelled the attacks, they acknowledged that several aircraft caught fire. Footage from the airfields revealed flames and smoke near damaged planes.

The Pentagon, which was reportedly unaware of the operation until after it had concluded, expressed skepticism about the scope of the damage. U.S. officials estimate between 11 and 15 bombers were likely hit in the strikes.

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Experts suggest the attack significantly weakened Russia’s long-range missile attack capabilities. Aircraft targeted included TU-95 and TU-22M3 bombers, as well as an A-50 radar aircraft used to direct Russian air operations.

Timing Amid Peace Talks Raises Questions

The strikes come just days before planned peace talks between Ukraine and Russia, set to take place Monday in Istanbul. Backed by President Donald Trump, the talks aim to negotiate a ceasefire, the return of prisoners, and the repatriation of Ukrainian children taken to Russia.

Despite these diplomatic discussions, tensions remain high. Russia has not agreed to Ukraine’s proposed terms. Experts are concerned that the drone strikes may complicate the negotiations.

The White House confirmed that President Trump’s administration was not informed of the operation beforehand. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth received a full briefing after the strikes, which officials described as “highly sophisticated.”

Tactical Impact and Ethical Questions

Military analysts say the use of drones launched from within Russian territory allowed Ukraine to bypass advanced air defense systems, such as the S-300 and S-400. BBC weapons expert Chris Partridge noted, “Launching from inside Russia gave the drones a critical element of surprise, leaving little time for air defenses to react.”

The operation’s success highlights Ukraine’s growing reliance on innovative tactics to counter Russia’s military strength. However, the scale of the attack has also drawn ethical questions, with Russia labeling it a form of terrorism.

What Happens Next?

The strikes have dealt a blow to Russia’s military capabilities, but the long-term implications remain uncertain. With peace talks on the horizon, the operation may either pressure Russia into negotiations or escalate tensions further.

Ukraine has stated it will continue defending itself while seeking diplomatic resolutions. Meanwhile, U.S. officials are closely monitoring the situation as they gather more details about the drone technology used.

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