In a major escalation of Ukraine’s defense campaign, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced a high-impact drone strike operation deep inside Russian territory, calling it a “brilliant operation” that struck at the heart of Russia’s military infrastructure. The operation, dubbed “Spiderweb,” involved the coordinated use of 117 drones, targeting airbases across multiple time zones and reportedly causing massive damage to Russia’s air force capabilities.

The scale, precision, and secrecy of the operation have drawn international attention, especially since it was carried out just days before scheduled peace talks between Ukraine and Russia in Istanbul. In his national address on Sunday, Zelenskyy praised the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) and Ukrainian armed forces for executing a “perfectly planned” strike that he said had been in preparation for over 18 months.

A Detailed Operation: 117 Drones, Multiple Time Zones

The Spiderweb operation, described as the most extensive Ukrainian strike since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, demonstrated a new level of Ukrainian capability. President Zelenskyy stated that the 117 drones were deployed in highly coordinated attacks, targeting strategic military sites across Russia. These included high-value airbases that housed long-range bombers and surveillance aircraft.

Among the targeted locations were:

• Belaya Airbase in Irkutsk, approximately 4,500 km from the Ukrainian border, highlighting Ukraine’s expanded reach.

• Dyagilevo Airbase in Ryazan, about 520 km from Ukraine.

• Olenya Airbase, located near Murmansk in the Arctic Circle.

• Ivanovo Air Base, a key strategic point in central Russia.

Zelenskyy said the attack led to the destruction or serious damage of more than 40 aircraft, including strategic bombers like the TU-95 and TU-22M3, and an A-50 early-warning surveillance aircraft, according to reports by CNN. The estimated financial damage exceeds $7 billion, Ukrainian sources claimed.

Near the FSB: Precision and Secrecy

One of the most striking elements of the operation, according to Zelenskyy, was that part of it was launched near a Russian FSB (Federal Security Service) office, a revelation that has stunned analysts and raised questions about Russian internal security. Zelenskyy confirmed that Ukrainian collaborators involved in the mission were safely extracted from Russian territory before the strike commenced.

Zelenskyy’s tone was triumphant, lauding the unprecedented level of coordination and flawless execution. “It’s an absolutely unique operation,” he declared. “Planning, organisation, and every detail was perfectly executed.”

Russia’s Military Blow: Strategic Fallout

The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) stated that this assault was intended to dismantle Russia’s ability to project airpower and to pre-emptively neutralize aircraft that had been used in raids against Ukrainian infrastructure and civilian areas. SBU chief Vasyl Maliuk personally briefed Zelenskyy on the results, prompting the Ukrainian president to celebrate what he called a “justified and deserved” strike.

Despite the complexity of launching such an attack deep into enemy territory, Ukraine reportedly encountered minimal resistance, a fact that is likely to cause alarm within Russian defense circles. Several military analysts noted that the drones used were likely domestically modified, showing a shift in Ukrainian defense technology independence.

Ignored Ceasefire Offer: A Missed Opportunity?

Zelenskyy emphasized that this strike followed repeated ceasefire proposals from Ukraine and the U.S., which Russia allegedly ignored. He revealed that a ceasefire offer backed by the United States had been extended to Moscow on March 11, but no progress was made as Russia continued its missile and drone barrages on Ukrainian cities.

In the 48 hours leading up to the Spiderweb operation, Ukraine recorded nearly 500 incoming Russian attack drones, many of which struck residential zones and critical infrastructure. Zelenskyy urged civilians to continue to take air raid alerts seriously, stating that Russia has increased the frequency and size of its attacks weekly.

International Response and Strategic Implications

International response to the Spiderweb operation has been cautiously supportive. While Western allies have not officially endorsed cross-border strikes, there has been a noticeable absence of criticism following this announcement. Analysts argue that Ukraine’s decision to strike only military installations may help it maintain diplomatic support from NATO nations, even as concerns about escalation continue.

The operation has also reignited debates on the limits of self-defense under international law. Many legal scholars suggest that Ukraine’s operation falls within Article 51 of the UN Charter, which allows nations to take defensive actions when under attack.

Peace Talks in Istanbul: Uncertain Outlook

The drone strike comes at a delicate time — just ahead of the next round of peace talks between Ukraine and Russia, scheduled for Monday in Istanbul, Turkey. Though earlier reports suggested Russian President Vladimir Putin might attend in person, his no-show has led to discussions being limited to lower-level officials.

Ukrainian negotiators are reportedly preparing to present a four-point framework, which includes:

1. A full and unconditional ceasefire

2. Mutual prisoner exchanges

3. Release of hostages and war detainees

4. Return of abducted Ukrainian children

However, Russia’s continued aggression and stalling tactics have cast doubt over the potential for meaningful progress. US President Donald Trump, who has remained involved in the diplomatic process, reportedly expressed frustration with Putin’s lack of engagement, sources close to the negotiations claimed.

Confidence Boost for Ukraine

Military strategists say that the success of Operation Spiderweb not only deals a tactical blow to Russia but also serves as a strategic morale booster for the Ukrainian military and populace. It sends a strong message that Ukraine is capable of offensive operations deep inside Russian territory, shifting the psychological balance in this prolonged conflict.

Zelenskyy concluded his address with a call for increased international pressure on Russia — including sanctions, military aid, and diplomatic isolation — to force a return to meaningful negotiations. “Russia must be brought back to reality. Only then can peace return,” he said.

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