Ukraine Launches Bold Drone Attack, Destroys Over 40 Military Aircraft Deep in Russia

KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — A recent Ukrainian drone operation has reportedly destroyed over 40 Russian aircraft within Russia’s borders. This operation, approved by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, took more than 18 months to plan. Ukrainian drones struck airfields in regions like Irkutsk, which is over 4,000 kilometers away from Ukraine. Local officials noted that this was the first Ukrainian drone sighting in that area and assured that it didn’t pose any threat to civilians.

Coinciding with this development, Zelenskyy announced that Ukraine would send a delegation to Istanbul for peace talks with Russia. Defense Minister Rustem Umerov will lead the talks. Zelenskyy emphasized Ukraine’s commitment to protecting its sovereignty and people. Ukrainian officials are urging Russia to clarify its stance in a promised memorandum meant to guide discussions.

In retaliation, Russia launched a significant drone attack on Ukraine this Sunday, deploying 472 drones, the highest number since Russia’s full-scale invasion began in February 2022. Along with the drones, Russia fired seven missiles. Tragically, a recent missile strike on a Ukrainian army training unit resulted in at least 12 deaths and over 60 injuries. Officials are investigating the incident closely, particularly since no large gatherings were present at the site at the time of the attack. This highlights the ongoing manpower challenges Ukraine faces amid aggressive drone surveillance from Russian forces.

In northern Ukraine, Russia claimed control over the village of Oleksiivka in the Sumy region. In response, Ukrainian authorities ordered mandatory evacuations in 11 settlements as Russian forces advance. Notably, Ukrainian army chief Oleksandr Syrskyi mentioned that Russian troops are intensifying their offensive in several key areas of the Donetsk region.

Given the current dynamics of the conflict, it’s crucial to stay informed. For more updates, you can follow AP’s coverage of the war at AP News.

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Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Ukraine, Russia, General news, AP Top News, Russia-Ukraine war, Yuriy Ignat, World news, Igor Kobzeva, Russia Ukraine war, Ukraine government