Ukraine reported a strike on a Russian airbase over the weekend as fighting in the region escalates. Russian drone attacks on Ukraine continued, complicating hopes for peace after more than three years of conflict.
The Ukrainian military targeted the Borisoglebsk airbase in Russia’s Voronezh region, a base known for housing advanced fighter jets like the Su-34 and Su-35S. They claimed to have hit a depot containing glide bombs and other aircraft. Despite this, Russian officials have not commented on the situation.
These strikes on Russian bases serve a dual purpose: to weaken Russia’s military capabilities and to show that Ukraine can reach important targets in Russia. Last month, Ukraine claimed to have destroyed over 40 Russian aircraft in a surprise drone attack that struck deep into Russian territory.
In response, Russia fired a barrage of 322 drones at Ukraine, of which 157 were shot down, according to Ukraine’s air force. The main target was the western Khmelnytskyi region, but fortunately, local officials reported no injuries or damage.
The latest drone strikes were part of a significant increase in long-range attacks from Russia. Just prior, Kyiv experienced its largest aerial assault since the invasion began, resulting in two deaths and 31 injuries, as reported by Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko.
Amid this turmoil, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had a productive phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump regarding strengthening Ukraine’s air defenses. They discussed potential joint weapons production and broader tactics to end the conflict. Trump remarked positively about the call but admitted that a resolution to the fighting remains uncertain.
Recent data shows that Ukraine’s air defense capabilities are under constant strain, especially with some U.S. military aid shipments paused, including essential air defense missiles. European allies are stepping in to fill the gaps, but rebuilding Ukraine’s arms industry takes time.
Conversely, Russia’s Defense Ministry claimed to have shot down 94 Ukrainian drones recently. In one incident, Ukrainian drones caused damage to 25 apartments in the Saratov region, showcasing the conflict’s impact on civilians.
As this intense back-and-forth continues, one thing is clear: the conflict remains deeply entrenched. The resilience of both nations is significant, as they navigate a complex landscape of military strategy and international support. The war’s course will likely influence global politics, especially as nations assess their roles in this ongoing crisis.