Ukraine launched a massive drone assault, hitting five Russian air bases—including Olenya on the Kola Peninsula—marking one of the deepest penetrations into Russian territory since the war began.
Ukrainian drones were reportedly smuggled into Russia to avoid radar detection, then launched precision strikes, catching Russian defenses off guard and escalating Kyiv’s asymmetric warfare strategy.
According to Ukrainian intelligence, 41 high-value Russian military aircraft were destroyed, including planes equipped for cruise missile launches and advanced surveillance operations.
For the first time, Ukrainian drones struck targets in Siberia and Russia’s Far East, showing the growing reach of Ukraine’s long-range strike capabilities despite vast distances.
Olenya Air Base, a crucial northern launch site for long-range bombers, was reportedly among the bases hit, indicating Ukraine’s focus on strategic air assets.
The Security Service of Ukraine likely coordinated the attack using advanced cyber and signal intelligence, enabling drones to reach targets undetected and strike with precision.
Russian officials acknowledged the attacks but have not confirmed aircraft losses. Analysts believe Moscow is trying to contain the fallout and assess the strategic implications.
Public opinion online praises Ukraine’s restraint, targeting only military infrastructure—unlike Russia’s repeated civilian attacks. Many see this as a powerful moral and tactical distinction.
The timing of the attack, just before bilateral peace talks in Istanbul, signals Ukraine’s intent to negotiate from a position of strength rather than desperation.
With this daring drone campaign, Ukraine demonstrates it can strike far into Russian territory—shifting the strategic balance and entering a new chapter of modern warfare.