In a significant escalation of its long-range strike capabilities, Ukraine carried out a massive drone operation on May 31, hitting multiple military airbases and critical infrastructure deep inside Russian territory. The attack reportedly destroyed or severely damaged over 40 Russian military aircraft, making it one of the most costly single-day losses for Russia’s air forces since the full-scale war began in 2022.

 

The timing of this strike is notable, coming just two days before Ukraine and Russia resumed peace talks in Istanbul, Turkey, sparking questions about its strategic purpose and political messaging.

 

What Was Hit: Multiple Airbases Across Russia

 

According to Ukrainian defense officials and international observers, the drone strike—known as "Operation Spider’s Web"—targeted at least five major Russian airbases:

 

Belaya Airbase (Siberia)

Dyagilevo Airbase (Ryazan region)

Ivanovo Severny Airbase

Olenya Airbase (Kola Peninsula, Arctic region)

Ukrainka Airbase (Russian Far East)

 

These airbases are home to strategic assets such as Tu-95 and Tu-22M3 bombers, Su-34 jets, and even an A-50 early warning aircraft—a critical part of Russia’s surveillance and command structure. The operation involved a swarm of 117 long-range drones, many launched from within Russian territory, indicating significant local coordination.

 

Satellite images and open-source intelligence confirm extensive damage to runways, hangars, and fuel depots. Russian air defense systems were reportedly overwhelmed by the sheer number of drones.

 

Other Strikes: Bridges and Trains Targeted

 

Alongside the airbase attacks, explosions were reported in Russia’s Bryansk and Kursk regions near the Ukrainian border. These incidents involved:

 

The destruction of a road bridge over a railway in Bryansk, just as a passenger train passed beneath it.

 

The explosion led to at least seven civilian deaths and multiple injuries.

 

A few hours later, a railway bridge in Kursk was also destroyed, though no casualties were reported there.

 

No group has claimed responsibility for the bridge attacks, and Ukraine has not officially acknowledged involvement.

 

Why Did Ukraine Strike Just Before the Peace Talks?

 

The drone attacks came just 48 hours before Ukrainian and Russian delegations met in Istanbul, Turkey, for a new round of peace negotiations. This timing was no accident.

 

Ukrainian officials have explained the rationale:

 

“We want peace—but not at the cost of weakness. These strikes demonstrate that Ukraine has the capability and determination to strike back, even deep within Russian territory.”

 

In short, Ukraine is using military leverage to strengthen its position at the negotiation table. By destroying key Russian military assets, Kyiv aims to:

 

Deter future Russian offensives

 

Force Moscow to take peace talks seriously

 

Show the world that Ukraine is not negotiating from a position of desperation

 

Peace Talks in Istanbul: Where Do They Stand?

 

On June 2, 2025, delegations from Ukraine and Russia met in Istanbul for the second round of direct peace negotiations hosted by Turkey. The talks are being closely monitored by the international community, as hopes rise for a potential ceasefire.

 

Ukraine's Proposal

 

Led by Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, Ukraine presented a peace roadmap that includes:

 

A 30-day mutual ceasefire

Exchange of prisoners

Return of Ukrainian children taken to Russia

A potential leaders’ summit between Zelenskyy and Putin

 

Ukraine insists on the restoration of its territorial integrity and no recognition of Russia’s annexed areas.

 

Russia’s Position

 

Russia has participated in the talks but has not submitted a formal counterproposal. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy criticized Moscow for arriving without a memorandum or clear agenda. The Kremlin has said it will “respond in due course,” but many observers believe Russia is stalling or hoping for leverage.

 

Strategic Implications

 

The destruction of more than 40 Russian aircraft—including long-range bombers—delivers a major blow to Moscow’s air power. These are not easily replaceable, especially under international sanctions and supply chain disruptions.

 

Experts suggest this could:

 

Delay Russian air operations

Lower the frequency of bombing campaigns on Ukrainian cities

Give Ukraine more breathing room on the battlefield

 

The drone attack also highlights Ukraine’s growing domestic drone manufacturing and electronic warfare capabilities.

 

Final Thoughts: A War of Weapons and Words

 

Ukraine’s bold drone assault just before peace talks may seem contradictory—but in modern warfare, military strength often shapes diplomatic outcomes. While the Istanbul peace talks offer a rare opportunity for dialogue, the success of those efforts may hinge on both sides realizing that neither can win outright on the battlefield.

 

For now, Ukraine has sent a powerful message: even during negotiations, it will not sit idle while its territory is under threat.

 

Stay tuned for further updates on the Istanbul peace talks and developments from the front lines.