KYIV, Ukraine — On Sunday, a significant escalation in the conflict saw a Ukrainian drone strike reportedly destroy over 40 aircraft within Russian borders, intensifying tensions just ahead of expected peace discussions in Istanbul. Ukraine’s Security Service revealed these details, emphasizing the sophistication of this extensive operation. This development coincides with Russia launching several missile and drone attacks on Ukrainian territories.
A military official disclosed that the complex drone assault had been in preparation for over 18 months and was directly overseen by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. According to the official, 117 drones were launched, and the operation was directed from a site near the local headquarters of the FSB, Russia’s security agency. The operation was reportedly challenging, involving the covert transport of FPV drones into Russia, which were then concealed and activated at a critical moment.
Video footage circulating on social media appears to show drones emerging from containers, suggesting they were strategically deployed. Russian sources reported individuals attempting to stop these drones as they took flight. The primary targets were said to be Russian bombers, such as the A-50, Tu-95, and Tu-22M models. These aircraft are known for their roles in bombarding Ukraine, and their damage could significantly impact Russian offensive capabilities.
The Security Service of Ukraine announced that the operation had achieved notable success, reportedly leading to the destruction of a substantial portion of Russia’s air fleet. Although this claim awaits independent verification, Russian Defense Ministry statements acknowledged the strikes, which resulted in fires and damage to aircraft across various regions, including the Irkutsk and Murmansk areas.
Simultaneously, the United States, although not informed ahead of Ukraine’s actions, is closely monitoring these developments. U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth received briefings while visiting Nellis Air Force Base. These unfolding events have unexpectedly elevated the conflict’s technical and strategic complexity.
On a related note, Sunday’s events included significant infrastructure damage within Russia itself, with two bridges reportedly collapsing following unexplained explosions. Additionally, train derailments led to casualties, yet official Russian reports remain vague about the causes of these incidents.
These heightened tensions occur as Ukraine prepares to engage in direct peace talks with Russia in Istanbul. President Zelenskyy expressed Ukraine’s commitment to defend its sovereignty and disclosed that Defense Minister Rustem Umerov would head the Ukrainian delegation. Kyiv emphasized the necessity for Russia to clarify its stance regarding the termination of hostilities as part of these discussions.
Despite the ongoing dialogue, Russia launched an unprecedented 472 drones against Ukraine, marking the largest drone assault since the onset of the invasion. Ukrainian air forces detailed additional missile attacks, compounding the challenges faced by Ukrainian defense efforts. Tragically, a missile attack earlier claimed the lives of 12 Ukrainian soldiers and injured 60 more at a training unit. As a result, a key military leader, Mykhailo Drapatyi, stepped down following the incident, showcasing the ongoing struggles within the Ukrainian military as the wider conflict persists amid prevailing insecurity.