WEB DESK: In an unprecedented escalation, Ukraine has executed a sweeping drone campaign targeting multiple Russian air bases, reportedly destroying dozens of strategic aircraft. The bold offensive, dubbed Operation Spiderweb, marks one of Ukraine’s most sophisticated military actions since the start of the full-scale war.
The strikes came just ahead of anticipated peace negotiations in Istanbul, showcasing Ukraine’s long-range capabilities and strategic reach. According to sources within Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU), at least four Russian airfields were struck simultaneously, with Russian bombers seen “burning en masse.” The drones, totaling 117, were reportedly launched from mobile platforms within Russian territory.
President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed the operation during a national address on Sunday evening, highlighting the extensive planning behind the mission. “This was not spontaneous. Every detail was meticulously prepared over 18 months. It stands as one of the most complex and effective operations of this war,” he stated.
More than 40 aircraft were known to have been hit, according to the SBU source, including TU-95 and Tu-22M3 strategic bombers and one of Russia’s few remaining A-50 surveillance planes. According to the SBU, the operation caused an estimated $7 billion in damages and hit 34% of Russia’s strategic cruise missile carriers at its main air bases.
“We are doing everything to drive the enemy from our native land! We will strike them at sea, in the air, and on land. And if needed — we’ll reach them even from underground,” the SBU said in a statement.
As of Sunday, U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth had been kept informed of the developments while en route to Joint Base Andrews, though he has yet to speak directly with Ukrainian officials. Pentagon analysts are currently reviewing satellite data and combat assessments to determine the full scope of destruction.
In a defiant statement, Ukraine’s SBU reaffirmed its commitment to repelling Russian forces: “We will strike them at sea, in the air, and on land — and if we must, even from underground. We are fighting for every inch of our homeland.
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