Ukraine’s covert “Spiderweb” drone operation struck deep into Russian territory, crippling bomber fleets and triggering diplomatic tremors.
At a Glance
- Ukraine destroyed or damaged 41 Russian bombers in a deep strike.
- The drones targeted strategic airbases across four Russian regions.
- Operation “Spiderweb” was planned over 18 months with covert assets.
- Moscow blames UK for aiding Kyiv’s long-range drone capabilities.
- Peace talks resumed in Istanbul amid rising retaliation threats.
Strategic Shock
On June 1, Ukraine launched what analysts now call a landmark covert operation—Spiderweb—targeting multiple Russian airbases housing strategic bombers. This offensive, as reported by Reuters, resulted in damage to 41 aircraft across bases including Belaya, Olenya, Ivanovo, and Dyagilevo. The assault marked one of the largest blows to Russia’s aerial strike capabilities since the war began.
Ukraine’s SBU intelligence chief framed the strikes as retaliation for Russia’s long-range bombardments, asserting that Moscow’s expectation of acting with impunity is over. Independent military experts estimate the losses amount to over $7 billion, eliminating nearly one-third of Russia’s cruise missile delivery systems. As BBC News noted, replacing these aircraft may be nearly impossible due to Western sanctions restricting parts and technology.
Watch a report: Ukraine launches deep drone strike on Russia.
Calculated Escalation
The “Spiderweb” campaign took 18 months to engineer, according to CBS News. Ukrainian operatives reportedly smuggled drone parts into Russia, stored them near targets in disguised freight vehicles, and launched strikes from within Russian territory—capturing footage to verify success. This internal coordination represents a significant evolution in Ukraine’s asymmetric warfare strategy.
Beyond its tactical success, the strike sent ripples through the international arena. Russian Ambassador to the UK, Andrei Kelin, accused London of contributing intelligence and technical support, inflaming tensions with NATO. In response, the Kremlin vowed retaliation “at a time and place of our choosing,” a threat followed by missile strikes on Ukrainian cities that resulted in civilian casualties.
Diplomacy on the Edge
Despite the escalating attacks, both sides met days later in Istanbul. Ukraine proposed a 30-day ceasefire and demanded the return of children and hostages, the use of frozen Russian assets for reconstruction, and non-recognition of Russian territorial advances since 2014. As Reuters reported, Turkish officials confirmed these terms are under consideration.
However, Russia maintains that NATO encroachment and its perceived duty to protect Russian-speaking populations in Ukraine justify its actions. This fundamental divide continues to stall diplomatic progress.
Ukraine’s demonstration of reach and precision may realign Western perceptions. One official close to President Zelenskyy warned that American assumptions of Ukraine’s impending defeat are misguiding policy and aid. With “Spiderweb,” Kyiv is signaling both capability and resolve—not just to Russia, but to any wavering allies watching from afar.
