Ukraine Destroys 40 Russian Aircraft Ahead of Peace Talks
Ukraine’s drone attack reportedly destroyed over 40 Russian aircraft, coinciding with missile strikes against Ukraine. The operation, approved by President Zelensky, involved strategic planning over 18 months and sophisticated techniques. The situation is further complicated by ongoing military actions as both nations prepare for peace discussions in Istanbul.
Ukraine has reportedly executed a significant drone attack that destroyed over 40 Russian aircraft, penetrating deep into Russian territory. This intelligence comes from Ukraine’s Security Service, which marked the operation’s timing with an ongoing barrage of missiles targeting Ukraine just hours before upcoming peace talks in Istanbul scheduled for Monday.
The details shared by a military official, who chose to remain anonymous for security purposes, indicate that the maneuver took a painstaking one-and-a-half years to plan. It also emphasizes the personal involvement of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who supervised the operation. Zelensky confirmed, in his evening address, that 117 drones were deployed in this unprecedented strike.
Interestingly, this operation was conducted from an office located next to the FSB headquarters, which is Russia’s intelligence organization. The source explained that the complexity of this attack revolved around smuggling FPV drones into Russia, which were cleverly stored in mobile wooden structures, lying in wait for the right moment to be launched.
Drones were hid under rooftops of these structures, and remote technology was employed to open them at the right moment, allowing the drones to escape and target Russian long-range bombers. Footage circulated on social media, purportedly showing drones launching from concealed containers as Russian personnel attempted to block them.
The drone attack was highly consequential, reportedly hitting 41 military aircraft, specifically A-50, Tu-95, and Tu-22M bombers. These types are key to Russia’s military strategy, used for launching missiles at Ukraine and managing air defenses. The successful strike is reported to have annihilated about 34 percent of Russia’s air missile carriers, causing damage roughly estimated at $7 billion.
Russian defense officials have acknowledged the damage. They confirmed that air bases in Irkutsk and Murmansk, located more than 4,000 kilometers from Ukraine, suffered from these drone strikes, igniting fires and damaging aircraft. Furthermore, it was noted that strikes were also attempted in regions such as Amur, Ivanovo, and Ryazan but had varying levels of success.
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth was briefed on these developments while at Nellis Air Force Base, suggesting a recognition of the sophistication of Ukraine’s operation, which he noted was unprecedented. However, a senior defense official clarified that the US was not forewarned about the upcoming drone assault.
In Russia, overnight explosions led to a collapse of two bridges and derailed two trains, resulting in at least seven deaths and numerous injuries. Notably, Russian authorities appeared to obfuscate the cause of these blasts, later retracting the word “explosions” in their press releases.
As this all unfolds, it coincides with Zelensky’s announcement of the Ukrainian delegation heading to Istanbul for talks with Russia. Led by Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, Zelensky emphasized Ukraine’s commitment to protecting its sovereignty. The Kremlin has indicated it will deliver a memorandum during these discussions, responding to previous calls from Ukraine for clarity on ending the conflict.
On the flip side of this activity, Russia also launched a staggering 472 drones at Ukraine, the highest count since the invasion began in February 2022. This follows a confirmed missile strike, which tragically took the lives of at least 12 Ukrainian service members at an army training unit. The situation has led to the resignation of Ukrainian army commander Mykhailo Drapatyi, a notable figure who had previously been instrumental in regaining territory.
The constant barrage resonates with ongoing challenges for Ukrainian forces. With the front lines active and certain air zones crowded with Russian drones, their strategies must include avoiding mass gatherings while engaging in combat operations.
In summary, Ukraine’s recent drone assault on Russian military assets marks a significant turning point in the ongoing conflict, highlighting Ukraine’s strategic capabilities. The attack, resulting in substantial losses for Russia, sets the stage for critical peace talks in Istanbul. However, the situation remains precarious as both sides continue to escalate their military actions, underscoring the volatility of this conflict as Ukraine grapples with its emerging military strategy.
Original Source: www.arabnews.pk
