- Russia has destroyed seven Ukrainian air bases, striking key locations that housed F-16s, MiG-29s, Su-27s, and Mirage 2000 fighter jets
Moscow (Agencies): Russia has launched retaliatory airstrikes and issued new threats following Ukraine’s covert drone assault on Russian military bases, which destroyed over 40 bombers and caused an estimated $7 billion (£5.2 billion) in damages. The operation, reportedly planned for 18 months, involved drones smuggled inside transport trucks and remotely activated upon reaching their targets.
Moscow claims that Ukraine used German, French, and British transport trucks to execute the attack, vowing to target all those involved—both inside and outside Ukraine. Russian officials warn that military and logistical hubs supporting Ukraine’s drone operations could become legitimate targets, escalating concerns about a broader conflict.
In response to ongoing drone warfare, Russia’s Defense Ministry announced that 162 Ukrainian drones were shot down overnight, including 57 intercepted in the Kursk region. The drones were reportedly targeting military and industrial sites across multiple Russian cities, further heightening tensions.
Meanwhile, Russia has revised its nuclear doctrine, moving away from its No First Use (NFU) policy. A decree signed by President Vladimir Putin expands nuclear use criteria, allowing Russia to launch nuclear strikes in response to non-nuclear threats that endanger its sovereignty. Additionally, Russia and Belarus have finalized an agreement to station tactical nuclear warheads in Belarus, sparking fears of nuclear escalation in Europe.
On the battlefield, Russia has destroyed seven Ukrainian air bases, striking key locations that housed F-16s, MiG-29s, Su-27s, and Mirage 2000 fighter jets. Ukrainian military officials have confirmed some losses, but Kyiv insists it still retains strong air capabilities and is working to deploy NATO-supplied fighter jets.
Despite these developments, peace talks between Russian and Ukrainian officials are set to begin today at Ciragan Palace in Istanbul. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called for an immediate ceasefire, but Russian officials have refused to present their demands in advance, stating they will submit a memorandum during negotiations.