On June 1, 2025, Ukraine executed its most extensive and far-reaching drone operation to date, codenamed Operation Spiderweb, targeting Russian military airbases deep within Russian territory. This meticulously planned assault involved 117 drones, which were covertly smuggled into Russia over an 18-month period and launched from concealed positions within the country. The drones struck five key airbases—Belaya, Dyagilevo, Ivanovo Severny, Olenya, and Ukrainka—resulting in the destruction or damage of over 40 Russian military aircraft, including strategic Tu-95 and Tu-22 bombers and A-50 radar planes. The estimated damage amounts to approximately $7 billion, significantly impacting Russia’s long-range aviation capabilities.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy hailed the operation as a “brilliant result,” emphasizing its strategic importance and the nation’s growing capabilities in conducting long-distance military operations. The timing of the strike, occurring just before renewed peace talks in Istanbul, underscores Ukraine’s resolve to counteract Russian aggression and influence diplomatic negotiations.
In response, Russia condemned the attacks as acts of terrorism, with some officials drawing parallels to historical events like Pearl Harbor. The Russian Defense Ministry confirmed the attacks, noting damage to aircraft and fires at airbases in regions including Irkutsk and Murmansk. The incident has intensified tensions ahead of the peace talks, with both sides facing mounting international pressure to find a resolution to the ongoing conflict.
