Ukraine Destroys One-Third of Russia’s Air Force in Long-Range Operation
posted 1st June 2025
Ukraine Destroys One-Third of Russia’s Air Force in Long-Range Operation
Kyiv, 1 June 2025 – Ukrainian forces have successfully destroyed approximately one-third of Russia’s strategic air force in a meticulously planned operation targeting multiple Russian airbases, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced on Sunday. The operation, which involved the destruction of over 40 military aircraft, including strategic bombers, marks a significant blow to Russia’s military capabilities.
In a statement posted on X, Zelenskyy described the operation as an “absolutely brilliant result” achieved solely by Ukrainian forces. He revealed that planning began one year, six months, and nine days ago, making it Ukraine’s longest-range operation to date. “Our people involved in preparing the operation were withdrawn from Russian territory in time,” Zelenskyy wrote, praising the leadership of General Vasyl Maliuk, head of the Security Service of Ukraine (SSU).
According to reports circulating on X, the operation targeted four Russian airbases, with Ukrainian forces deploying 117 first-person view (FPV) drones launched from modified shipping containers smuggled into Russia over the past 18 months. These containers, equipped with retractable roofs, enabled Ukraine to strike 34% of Russia’s strategic cruise missile carriers, a critical component of its air force.
Zelenskyy instructed the SSU to disclose permissible details of the operation to the public, noting that some aspects must remain confidential for security reasons. “These are Ukrainian actions that will undoubtedly be in history books,” he stated, emphasising Ukraine’s resolve to defend itself against Russian aggression. “Russia started this war, Russia must end it. Glory to Ukraine!”
The operation’s success has been hailed as a testament to Ukraine’s strategic ingenuity and operational secrecy. Anadolu Agency reported Zelenskyy’s description of the strikes as “brilliant,” highlighting the 18-month planning period and the safe withdrawal of all personnel involved.
Ukrainian media outlet United24 reported Zelenskyy’s gratitude to the SSU, underscoring the operation’s significance in forcing Russia to confront the consequences of its invasion. “Ukraine is defending itself, and rightly so – we are doing everything to make Russia feel the need to end this war,” he said.
The strikes represent a major escalation in Ukraine’s efforts to weaken Russia’s military infrastructure. By targeting strategic bombers, Ukraine has disrupted Russia’s ability to conduct long-range airstrikes, a key element of its war strategy. The operation’s scale and precision have drawn widespread praise, with posts on X describing it as a historic achievement for Ukrainian forces.
As the conflict continues, Zelenskyy’s statement reinforces Ukraine’s determination to resist Russian aggression through innovative and impactful military operations. The international community awaits further details on the operation’s outcomes and its potential impact on the ongoing war.
