Ukraine executed a significant drone operation destroying over 40 Russian aircraft in a highly strategic attack supervised by President Zelensky. This operation coincided with a wave of missile strikes from Russia and preparations for upcoming peace talks in Istanbul. The situation remains tense, with Ukraine facing heavy losses and operational challenges.
In a dramatic development, Ukrainian forces have successfully executed a drone assault that resulted in the destruction of over 40 Russian aircraft on Sunday, according to reports from Ukraine’s Security Service. This extensive operation was conducted in Russian territory while Moscow retaliated with missiles and drones targeting Ukraine ahead of crucial peace talks scheduled in Istanbul.
The operation took more than 18 months to plan and was executed under the personal supervision of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Sources unfamiliar with the specifics but close to military operations stated that 117 drones were utilized in this offensive, notably coordinated from an office adjacent to the local FSB headquarters, the Russian equivalent of a security service.
The military source described the drone operation as “extremely complex,” highlighting that it involved smuggling FPV drones into Russia. These drones were cleverly concealed in mobile wooden houses, revealing an innovative method of transportation. “Later, drones were hidden under the roofs of these houses while already placed on trucks. At the right moment, the roofs of the houses were remotely opened, and the drones flew to hit Russian bombers,” the source explained.
Footage circulating on social media indicated the drones emerging from concealed positions, while Russian personnel appeared trying to intercept their launch. According to the Ukrainian military official, the target included major aircraft types such as A-50, Tu-95, and Tu-22M, with military airfields sustaining significant damage during the assault. The Security Service of Ukraine claims that the operation, codenamed “Web”, has crippled a notable 34 percent of Russia’s air missile carrier fleet, with damages around $7 billion, though this assertion remains unverified.
Russia’s Defense Ministry confirmed that the drone strikes caused damage and ignited fires at airbases in various regions, including Irkutsk and Murmansk, situated more than 2,500 miles from Ukraine. Additional strikes were reportedly intercepted in the Far East and western regions of Russia.
In parallel news, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth was kept informed about Ukraine’s extensive drone operation during a visit to Nellis Air Force Base. A senior defense official, speaking on condition of anonymity, remarked that US intelligence wasn’t alerted prior to the attack, indicating a level of operational ability that was unfamiliar to them.
Also on Sunday, Russia’s investigative agencies reported that explosions led to two bridge collapses and train derailments in western Russia, leaving seven dead and injuring many more. Oddly, the causes of these explosions remained under wraps, with the term “explosions” later omitted from an official statement.
This military escalation coincided with preparations for peace negotiations, as President Zelensky announced that Ukraine would send a team to Istanbul for discussions with Russia on Monday. He appointed Defense Minister Rustem Umerov to lead the delegation, emphasizing Ukraine’s commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty. Earlier calls from Ukrainian officials requested a memorandum from the Kremlin detailing its position on a potential ceasefire before the meeting.
Meanwhile, Russia launched its largest aerial assault yet, deploying a staggering 472 drones against Ukraine in one single day, along with a barrage of seven missiles. Reports from Ukraine’s air force confirmed the heavy toll, mentioning at least 12 Ukrainian soldiers killed and more than 60 wounded in a separate missile strike targeting a military training unit.
In the wake of these losses, Ukrainian army commander Mykhailo Drapatyi tendered his resignation following the attack, an individual recognized for spearheading successful operations to reclaim territory on the eastern front since Kyiv’s pivotal counteroffensive last year. The training unit fell victim while positioned well behind the active front line, demonstrating the reach of Russian reconnaissance and strike capabilities. Ukrainian forces are currently strained, taking heightened precautions due to the high volume of Russian drone activity across their operational zones.
In summary, Ukraine’s recent drone operation marked a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict, demonstrating effective military strategy against Russian forces. The successful attack led to considerable damage to Russian air capabilities, further complicating the geopolitical landscape ahead of peace talks in Istanbul. As both nations ramp up military activity, the stakes continue to rise, revealing the complexities of the conflict and the urgency for diplomatic resolutions.
Original Source: www.arabnews.pk
