Major Drone Strike Hits Russian Military Airbases in Siberia
Ukraine launched one of its most extensive drone attacks on Russia, targeting multiple military airbases in eastern Siberia, thousands of kilometers from the front lines. The strike marks the first recorded drone attack in the Siberian region.
Details of the Attack
The governor of Russia's Irkutsk region confirmed the assault on a military unit in the village of Sridni, acknowledging the use of Ukrainian remotely piloted aircraft in the operation. Ukrainian intelligence reportedly struck more than 40 aircraft across several Russian air bases simultaneously.
- Four airbases were targeted, including Olenya and Belaya airfields.
- The destroyed aircraft reportedly include Tu-95 and Tu-22M3 bombers, as well as at least one A-50 early warning aircraft.
This operation, code-named “Pavutyna” (Web), aims to degrade Russia’s long-range strike capabilities deep within its own territory.
Impact and Response
The attack represents potentially the most damaging Ukrainian drone strike to date and signifies a considerable setback for Russian military logistics and air power.
Following the assault, fires broke out at the Belaya air base, and both military and civilian emergency services were mobilized to mitigate the damage. Russian authorities have claimed to have blocked the source of the drone launch to prevent further incursions.
Ukraine's Drone Strategy
Facing Russia’s overwhelming missile arsenal, Ukraine has strategically invested in a robust fleet of attack drones, leveraging them to disrupt Russian military assets and infrastructure. Recent strikes targeted not only military aircraft but also energy facilities critical to the Russian war effort.
Diplomatic Developments
Amid ongoing hostilities, Russia proposed a fresh round of peace talks in Istanbul, which Ukraine has agreed to attend. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that a delegation led by Minister Rustem Umerov will participate in discussions scheduled for Monday.
Zelensky emphasized priorities ahead of talks, including achieving a complete and unconditional ceasefire and securing the return of prisoners and abducted children, signaling Ukraine’s resolve to pursue diplomatic solutions alongside its defense efforts.
