Ukraine inflicted a major blow to the Russian air force on Sunday (June 1), launching a massive drone attack that destroyed more than 40 Russian aircraft, according to Ukrainian sources.
The attack took place on the eve of scheduled Kyiv-Moscow talks in Constantinople. Both delegations are expected to travel to Turkey.
This is not the first time Ukraine has targeted Russian airfields, some of which host strategically critical aircraft. However, this appears to be the most ambitious operation deep within Russian territory—and possibly the most successful.
The operation, codenamed “Pavutyna” (“Spiderweb”), targeted at least four Russian air bases: Belaya, Dyagilevo, Olenya, and Ivanovo.
All bases are located far from Ukraine’s borders: Dyagilevo is 700 km away, Ivanovo 900 km, Olenya 2,000 km, and Belaya a staggering 4,700 km.
Among the aircraft destroyed were Tu-95 and Tu-22M3 bombers, as well as A-50 airborne early warning planes.
Unverified images released online show several Russian strategic bombers (Tu-95MS) engulfed in flames. As of now, Russia has not issued any official statements.
According to Sky News, the attack was carried out by Ukraine’s intelligence service, the SBU. A source told the outlet that the drones targeted aircraft responsible for nightly bombings of Ukrainian cities.
Reports on social media suggest the drones were hidden in trucks and launched from short range near the targeted bases.
Ukrainian Defense Minister to Travel to Turkey Tomorrow
Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts are ongoing. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that Defense Minister Rustem Umerov will participate in peace talks with Russia, to be held in Turkey.
During a meeting, Zelensky outlined Ukraine’s position ahead of the talks in Istanbul. Ukraine will demand:
1. A complete and unconditional ceasefire,
2. The release of prisoners,
3. The return of abducted children.
In a social media post, Zelensky stated that Umerov will also propose preparations for a meeting between himself and Vladimir Putin, saying: “The key issues can only be resolved by the leaders.”
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