Ukraine Launches Large-Scale Drone Attack on Russian Military Airfields
In a bold escalation of its offensive capabilities, Ukraine has initiated a significant drone assault targeting military airfields deep within Russian territory. This operation has reportedly damaged at least two airfields, contributing to a shifting narrative in the ongoing conflict and increasing pressure on the Kremlin.
The Ukrainian General Staff confirmed the drone strikes that occurred on Wednesday night, detailing that a total of four airfields were struck across various regions of Russia. Analysts have noted that this operation stands out as one of the most extensive drone attacks conducted by Ukraine to date, following a series of previous strikes aimed at Russian military infrastructure located far from the front lines.
Key targets of this latest assault included airfields situated in Russia’s Kursk region. This area has been a focal point for Ukrainian troops, who executed a surprise incursion across the border just last week and have since made significant advances in their military campaign.
In response, Russia’s Defense Ministry announced that Ukraine had launched an impressive total of 117 drones across multiple regions housing the targeted airfields. While the Russian officials did not report any damage from the strikes, satellite imagery analyzed and verified by The New York Times revealed that substantial damage occurred at Russian air bases in Savasleyka and Borisoglebsk, located approximately 400 and 150 miles from the Ukrainian border, respectively.
The satellite images indicated the destruction of at least two hangars and damage to a warehouse, although it remains uncertain if any aircraft were directly impacted by the strikes. In contrast, imagery from the two other airfields claimed by Ukraine to have been hit showed no significant destruction, suggesting a mix of outcomes from the operation.
Ukraine’s strategic focus on targeting Russian airfields is part of a broader effort to undermine Moscow’s capacity to conduct devastating airstrikes against Ukrainian forces and civilian areas. By crippling these key military assets, Ukraine aims to enhance its defensive and offensive operations amid the ongoing conflict.
