According to Ukrainian media, the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) conducted the strikes under a special operation code-named Pavutyna (“Web”). The Kyiv Independent reported that more than 40 Russian aircraft were damaged or destroyed across four separate airbases, including strategic sites like Olenya and Belaya. Among the aircraft reportedly hit were Tu-95 and Tu-22M3 bombers, and at least one A-50 airborne radar plane—critical assets in Russia’s long-range strike arsenal.

A fire broke out at Belaya airbase following the attack, with Russian authorities confirming immediate mobilization of military and civilian response teams. Russia’s RT shared video footage of the Irkutsk strike, claiming that the drone launch source had been neutralized.

This latest Ukrainian maneuver underscores Kyiv’s shift toward high-impact, deep-strike tactics, using its burgeoning fleet of attack drones to offset its missile disadvantage.

In a parallel development, Russia has proposed renewed peace talks in Istanbul, scheduled for Monday. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that Defense Minister Rustem Umerov would lead the delegation. Zelensky stated Ukraine's demands include a “complete and unconditional ceasefire” and the return of prisoners and abducted children.

The simultaneous escalation on the battlefield and movement at the negotiating table signals a pivotal moment in the conflict—potentially reshaping the trajectory of the war in the months ahead.

According to Ukrainian media, the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) conducted the strikes under a special operation code-named Pavutyna (“Web”). The Kyiv Independent reported that more than 40 Russian aircraft were damaged or destroyed across four separate airbases, including strategic sites like Olenya and Belaya. Among the aircraft reportedly hit were Tu-95 and Tu-22M3 bombers, and at least one A-50 airborne radar plane—critical assets in Russia’s long-range strike arsenal.

A fire broke out at Belaya airbase following the attack, with Russian authorities confirming immediate mobilization of military and civilian response teams. Russia’s RT shared video footage of the Irkutsk strike, claiming that the drone launch source had been neutralized.

This latest Ukrainian maneuver underscores Kyiv’s shift toward high-impact, deep-strike tactics, using its burgeoning fleet of attack drones to offset its missile disadvantage.

In a parallel development, Russia has proposed renewed peace talks in Istanbul, scheduled for Monday. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that Defense Minister Rustem Umerov would lead the delegation. Zelensky stated Ukraine's demands include a “complete and unconditional ceasefire” and the return of prisoners and abducted children.

The simultaneous escalation on the battlefield and movement at the negotiating table signals a pivotal moment in the conflict—potentially reshaping the trajectory of the war in the months ahead.