What damage have Ukraine’s covert drone attacks on Russia actually caused?

What damage have Ukraine’s covert drone attacks on Russia actually caused?

The Impact of Ukraine’s Covert Drone Attacks on Russian Military Capabilities

In a significant escalation of the ongoing conflict, Ukraine’s covert drone strikes have reportedly targeted crucial Russian air bases, hitting the TU-22 and TU-95 strategic bombers. These aircraft play a central role in Russia’s cruise missile operations, making them prime targets in Ukraine’s efforts to undermine its adversary’s military capabilities.

Ukraine claims that these strikes may have resulted in the destruction of up to 40 bombers, a figure that contrasts sharply with Russian reports, which suggest a significantly lower number of aircraft affected. Independent experts, in their assessments, estimate that around 13 aircraft may have either been damaged or destroyed in these operations.

The aging TU-22 and TU-95 bombers, no longer in production, represent not just material assets for Russia but hold symbolic value in demonstrating military strength. Their loss to Ukraine’s drone warfare resonates beyond the battlefield; it strikes a blow to Kremlin morale and challenges the image of invulnerability that the Russian military has tried to maintain.

The strategic implications of these attacks extend into the broader narrative of the war, as they potentially alter the calculus for President Vladimir Putin. The Kremlin’s response to these drone strikes will be a critical indicator of the Russian leadership’s strategy moving forward.

As the situation evolves, the spotlight is firmly on how Russia will adapt to this newfound vulnerability in its aerial capabilities and whether Ukraine’s tactical advancements will embolden further resistance. The stakes are high, and the international community watches closely, aware that each move could redefine the trajectory of the conflict.

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Video “What damage has Ukraine’s covert drone attacks on Russia actually caused? | DW News” was uploaded on 06/04/2025 to Youtube Channel DW News