Ukraine Executes Massive Drone Strike on Russian Airbases, Damaging $7 Billion in Military Aircraft

Ukraine has launched its most audacious long-range drone offensive yet, targeting multiple Russian airbases deep within enemy territory and reportedly destroying or damaging up to $7 billion worth of military aircraft. The strikes hit sites in Belaya (Siberia), Olenya (near the Arctic), Ivanovo, and Dyagilevo thousands of kilometres from the front, marking a dramatic escalation just ahead of ceasefire talks set for Istanbul.

Ukraine’s SBU security service claimed the Belaya base was hardest hit, with over 40 aircraft damaged. Footage circulating online showed aircraft ablaze, though AFP could not independently verify the videos. Russia acknowledged several planes were damaged and confirmed arrests had been made. Regional governors in Irkutsk and Murmansk confirmed air defence engagements and advised civilians not to panic.

In a grim counterpoint, Russia struck back with a missile attack that killed 12 Ukrainian soldiers and wounded over 60 at a training unit. The fallout led to the resignation of Ground Forces Commander Mykhailo Drapaty.

President Zelensky, while sceptical of Moscow’s intentions, confirmed Defence Minister Rustem Umerov will lead Ukraine’s delegation to Istanbul. The agenda: a ceasefire, the return of prisoners, and the repatriation of abducted children. Russia is sending a delegation but rejected a leader-level summit proposed by Turkey.

Meanwhile, Ukraine’s military warned of a possible renewed Russian ground offensive in the northern Sumy region, where 50,000 Russian troops are reportedly massed. More than 200 villages have been evacuated as clashes intensify.

Inside Russia, chaos unfolded with two major bridge collapses. A blast in Bryansk derailed a passenger train, killing seven, while another in Kursk derailed a freight train. Both are being investigated as acts of terrorism.

Capping a volatile weekend, Ukraine reported the largest Russian aerial barrage to date: 472 drones and seven missiles launched in one night.

As both nations head to Istanbul, diplomacy stands on a knife’s edge amid deepening conflict and mounting losses on both sides.