Ukrainian Drone Assault Targets Russian Airbase in Siberia
In a significant escalation, Ukraine launched a large-scale drone operation on June 1, 2025, striking a Russian military facility deep within eastern Siberia. The attack targeted an airbase in the village of Sridni in the Irkutsk region, marking the first drone strike in Siberia’s territory.
Details of the Attack
The governor of the Irkutsk region confirmed the assault, explaining that Ukrainian remotely piloted aircraft executed the strikes against a military unit. The operation reportedly resulted in substantial damage, with Ukrainian sources claiming that more than 40 Russian aircraft were destroyed across multiple airbases.
Reports indicate that the drone attacks simultaneously hit four Russian military airfields, including notable bases at Olenya and Belaya.
Aircraft and Damage
Among the damaged Russian aircraft were several strategic bombers such as the Tu-95 and Tu-22M3, as well as at least one airborne early warning aircraft, the A-50. A fire reportedly erupted at the Belaya airbase as a result of the strikes.
If these reports are verified, this represents the most damaging Ukrainian drone operation against Russia since the conflict began, significantly impacting Moscow’s long-range strike capabilities.
Response and Tactical Significance
Local military and civilian emergency teams were mobilized immediately to respond to the attack. Measures have been taken to block the drone launch sites to prevent further incursions.
The offensive was conducted as part of a special operation code-named "Pavutyna" ("Web"), aiming to degrade Russia’s aerial bombing strength far from the active frontlines.
Strategic Context
Ukraine, lacking a comparable missile inventory to Russia, has invested heavily in developing a substantial fleet of attack drones. These have been employed in previous strikes against Russian military installations and energy infrastructure.
Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts continue: a fresh round of negotiations is scheduled in Istanbul following a proposal by Russia, which Ukraine has accepted. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that a delegation led by Minister Rustem Umerov will participate in the talks on June 2, 2025.
Zelensky emphasized priorities including achieving a complete and unconditional ceasefire and securing the return of prisoners and abducted children.
Summary
- Ukrainian drones struck an airbase in the Irkutsk region of Siberia—the first attack of its kind in this area.
- More than 40 Russian aircraft, including strategic bombers and an early warning plane, were reportedly destroyed.
- The operation targeted four Russian airbases simultaneously, disrupting Russia's long-range strike capacity.
- The strike is part of Ukraine’s special operation “Pavutyna” aimed at weakening Russian military capabilities far from the frontline.
- Diplomatic talks between Ukraine and Russia are scheduled to continue in Istanbul, focusing on ceasefire and prisoner issues.
