Ukraine’s military reportedly conducted a “large-scale” drone attack on Russia, with Ukrainian state media claiming over 40 strategic bomber jets were destroyed across various regions, including Irkutsk in Siberia, over 4,000 kilometers from the border.
Ukraine’s SBU claimed the “Spider Web” operation targeted planes used in attacks on Ukrainian cities, hitting four airfields: Olenya, Ivanovo, Dyagilevo, and Belaya (in Irkutsk).
The SBU described the operation as “extremely complex” logistically, involving transporting and hiding drones.
A Ukrainian official stated the US administration was not informed beforehand.
Russia’s Defense Ministry confirmed attacks on airfields in multiple regions but claimed they were largely repelled.
They reported some aircraft caught fire in the Murmansk and Irkutsk regions, stating the fires were extinguished and some involved individuals were detained.
Governors of Irkutsk, Murmansk, and Ryazan regions confirmed drone attacks, with Irkutsk’s governor reporting the drone launch source was blocked.
The Murmansk governor dismissed reports of explosions in Severomorsk as “fake.”