On June 1, 2025, Ukraine executed a bold and unprecedented drone offensive deep within Russian territory, targeting multiple strategic airbases in an operation codenamed "Operation Spider's Web." This meticulously planned mission, overseen by Ukraine's Security Service (SBU) and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, marked the most extensive and far-reaching drone assault of the conflict to date.
Targets and Impact: The operation struck five Russian airbases—Belaya, Dyagilevo, Ivanovo Severny, Olenya, and Ukrainka—resulting in the destruction or damage of over 40 military aircraft. Notably, these included strategic bombers like the Tu-95 and Tu-22M3, as well as A-50 early-warning aircraft. Ukrainian officials estimate that approximately one-third of Russia's strategic cruise missile carriers were incapacitated, inflicting damages estimated at $7 billion.
Execution Strategy: The SBU orchestrated the smuggling of 117 first-person-view (FPV) drones into Russia over an 18-month period. These drones were ingeniously concealed within wooden structures mounted on trucks. At the designated time, the structures' roofs were remotely opened, allowing the drones to launch and strike their targets with precision.
Geographical Reach: The attacks penetrated deep into Russian territory, with some airbases located over 4,000 kilometers from Ukraine's borders, including sites in Siberia and the Arctic Circle. This demonstrated Ukraine's enhanced long-range operational capabilities.
Russian Response: The Russian Ministry of Defense confirmed the attacks, labeling them as "terrorist acts." While asserting that some assaults were repelled, they acknowledged damage at certain sites. The incident has been likened by some Russian commentators to a "Pearl Harbor" moment, highlighting the shock and strategic impact of the operation.
Strategic Implications: The timing of the operation, just before scheduled peace talks in Istanbul, suggests a strategic move by Ukraine to strengthen its negotiating position. President Zelenskyy emphasized Ukraine's commitment to dialogue but underscored the necessity of a full ceasefire and the restoration of territorial integrity.
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