In a major escalation of the ongoing war, Ukraine has launched one of its largest drone offensives to date, targeting key Russian military airbases and successfully hitting more than 40 military aircraft. The strike, reportedly carried out on Sunday, targeted the Olenya and Belaya airbases deep inside Russian territory.
Confirmed by Ukrainian Officials
According to an Associated Press (AP) report, a senior Ukrainian security official confirmed the operation, stating that the attack was orchestrated by Ukraine’s domestic security agency, the SBU (Security Service of Ukraine). The Kyiv Independent quoted an SBU source saying,
“Right now, the Security Service of Ukraine is conducting a large-scale special operation to destroy enemy bomber aircraft in the rear of the Russian Federation.”
Targets Included Strategic Bombers
The drones struck strategic aircraft models such as the Tu-95, Tu-22M3, and the A-50, all of which are used by Russia to conduct long-range missile attacks against Ukrainian cities. These bombers are essential components of Russia’s offensive strategy, often involved in nightly bombardments across Ukraine.
A Reuters report revealed that these targeted bombers, especially the Tu-95 and Tu-22, are among Russia’s most powerful assets. Damaging or disabling such a large number of them could significantly reduce Russia’s aerial capabilities in the near term.
Operation Supervised by President Zelenskyy
A particularly striking detail emerged from AP’s coverage: the operation was reportedly “personally supervised” by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. According to the official, the planning for this mission took over 1.5 years, indicating a high level of strategic preparation and intelligence gathering.
Visual Evidence and Social Media Buzz
Images and videos circulating on social media platforms, particularly on X (formerly Twitter), show plumes of smoke rising from airbases and damaged aircraft. Although independent verification is ongoing, these visuals have gone viral and seem to support the claims of a large-scale attack.
Russia’s Overnight Assault on Ukraine
Before this reported Ukrainian retaliation, Russia launched its own aerial assault overnight, firing 109 drones and five missiles across various Ukrainian regions, according to the Ukrainian Air Force. These barrages have been a constant threat to civilian areas and infrastructure.
Train Derailment Near Ukraine Border
Adding to the chaos, a train derailment occurred near the Ukrainian border earlier on Sunday, killing seven people and injuring at least 30 others. Russian authorities, particularly Moscow Railway, claimed the derailment and a bridge collapse were caused by “illegal interference in transport operations,” hinting at possible sabotage.
Ceasefire Talks Set to Begin
Despite the mounting violence, peace talks between Russia and Ukraine are scheduled to begin Monday in Istanbul, Turkey. However, tensions remain high, and doubts over the sincerity of the talks have been expressed.
President Zelenskyy commented:
“For a meeting to be meaningful, its agenda must be clear, and the negotiations must be properly prepared.”
His remarks reflect ongoing concerns about Russia’s true intentions and whether it is genuinely interested in de-escalation.
