Ukraine-Russia Talks: Istanbul Amid Kyiv Aviation Attack
- Ukraine's security service (SBU) has claimed obligation for a significant operation targeting Russian military aviation, asserting that more than 41 aircraft were affected.
- According to a source within the SBU, the operation, code-named "Web," had been in the planning stages for a year and a half.
- Ukrayinska Pravda reports that all agents involved in the operation have safely returned to Ukraine.
Ukraine Claims Extensive Attack on Russian Military Aviation
Updated June 02, 2025
Ukraine’s security service (SBU) has claimed obligation for a significant operation targeting Russian military aviation, asserting that more than 41 aircraft were affected. The ”magnitude” operation, as it’s been called, targeted several aerodromes far from the front lines, including those near Ryazan, Olenia, Ivanovo, Belaic, and Voskressensk.
According to a source within the SBU, the operation, code-named “Web,” had been in the planning stages for a year and a half. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reportedly oversaw the effort, with direct leadership from special services head Vassyl Maliouk. Maliouk stated that suicide bomber drones were transported into Russia, hidden in boxes on trucks. These drones were then launched to strike Russian bombers.
In this photo, the head of the Ukrainian security services, Vassyl Maliouk, examines the strategic positions of Russian aviation, in his office, in Ukraine.
Ukrayinska Pravda reports that all agents involved in the operation have safely returned to Ukraine. The news outlet suggests that any potential arrests announced by the Russian government would be staged for propaganda purposes.
Russian Telegram channels have shown various aspects of the attack, including drones taking off from trucks near the targeted bases and self-destructing after launch. Igor Kobzev, governor of the Irkutsk region, confirmed a drone attack near the Belaïa base, marking the first such incident in Siberia. He urged residents to remain calm and shared a video purportedly showing a drone and smoke in the distance.
Andreï Tchibis, governor of the Murmansk region, reported that enemy drones were detected, and air defenses were activated.
What’s next
The claims and counterclaims surrounding this operation are likely to continue as both sides assess the full extent of the damage and strategic implications of this alleged attack on Russian military aviation.