Moscow/Irkutsk (Agencies): In a massive drone offensive, Ukraine has reportedly struck at least 40 Russian warplanes, marking one of its most audacious long-range operations of the war. According to Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU), the attacks targeted four key Russian military airfields, including Belaya Airbase in Irkutsk Oblast, Olenya Airbase in Murmansk Oblast, Dyagilevo Airbase in Ryazan Oblast, and Ivanovo Airbase in Ivanovo Oblast—thousands of miles from Ukraine’s borders.
At the same time, Ukraine reportedly carried out a UAV attack on Russia’s Olenya Airfield, located in the Arctic Circle. The strike allegedly targeted a Tu-22M3 bomber, a long-range missile carrier stationed at the base. The Olenya Airfield is just 200 kilometers from Finland and Norway, raising speculation that the drones may have been launched from within these territories. Some reports suggest that the attack used the same method of drones hidden in trucks, allowing them to evade Russian air defenses before striking their targets.
Reports indicate that Ukraine’s SBU operatives secretly transported FPV drones into Russian territory, concealing them inside mobile wooden cabins placed on trucks. At the time of the attack, the roofs of these cabins were remotely opened, allowing the drones to take off and strike nearby airbases. This covert method enabled Ukraine to bypass Russian air defenses and launch surprise strikes on strategic bombers.
The Ukrainian drones allegedly hit Tu-95 and Tu-22M3 bombers, aircraft crucial to Russia’s missile strikes against Ukraine. The strikes may also have impacted A-50 early warning aircraft, known for their intelligence-gathering capabilities.
While Russian officials have not confirmed the scale of destruction, governors of Irkutsk and Murmansk regions acknowledged drone activity near military installations. Emerging footage appears to show smoke rising from targeted areas, suggesting significant impact.
The attack has sent shockwaves through Russian military circles, with some commentators calling it “Russia’s Pearl Harbor.” Pro-Putin Telegram channels and military analysts have described the drone blitz as one of the worst days in Russian aviation history. The scale of destruction, particularly the loss of strategic bombers, has led to calls for retaliation from Russian officials and war hawks.
Meanwhile, great activity has been reported at Russia’s strategic missile command base in the Urals, as Moscow appears to be preparing for a counter-strike. Additionally, President Vladimir Putin has reportedly been flown out of Moscow to a secret bunker near St. Petersburg, raising speculation about Russia’s next moves.
According to Ukrainian intelligence sources, the SBU named this secret operation “WEB,” and it was planned for 16 months with active support from NATO. The operation involved detailed intelligence coordination and logistical support, making it one of Ukraine’s most ambitious strikes against Russian military assets.
Meanwhile, NATO countries are on high alert, fearing a harsh response from Russia following the drone strikes. Military officials across Europe have reportedly raised their defense readiness levels, with discussions underway about potential countermeasures.
Additionally, Ukraine’s Ground Forces Chief Mykhailo Drapatyi has stepped down, citing personal responsibility for a deadly Russian missile strike on a Ukrainian training ground that killed 12 soldiers and injured 60 others. Drapatyi stated that his resignation was a deliberate step, acknowledging failures in ensuring troop safety.
In another alarming development, a powerful explosion has been reported in Severomorsk, home to Russia’s Northern Fleet and nuclear submarine base. Eyewitnesses describe large plumes of smoke rising from the area, though Russian authorities have yet to confirm the cause of the blast. Given Severomorsk’s strategic importance, the incident has raised concerns about potential damage to Russia’s nuclear-armed submarines.
This story is developing, with further details expected in the coming hours. Stay tuned for updates.