Ukraine’s Daring “Spider’s Web” Operation: A Major Blow to Russia

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In a stunning display of strategic brilliance, Ukraine has launched a large-scale drone strike, codenamed “Spider’s Web,” targeting Russian military airbases deep within Russia’s territory. This bold move has sent shockwaves throughout the international community, with many hailing it as a significant turning point in the ongoing conflict between the two nations.

A Big Blow to Russia

The operation, which was months in the making, has resulted in significant damage to Russia’s military capabilities. According to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, the strike was the country’s longest-range operation to date, with 117 drones being used to target 41 aircraft, including nuclear-capable Tu-95 and Tu-22 strategic bombers and A-50 aircraft.

The attack, which was carried out with precision and finesse, has been estimated to have caused around $7 billion in damages to Russia’s “strategic aviation” capabilities. This includes the destruction of 34% of Russia’s strategic carriers of cruise missiles at its main airbases.

A Year and a Half of Planning

The operation was the result of a year and a half of meticulous planning, with Ukrainian forces working tirelessly to prepare for the strike. Zelensky praised the operation as “absolutely brilliant,” noting that the “office” of Ukraine’s operation on Russian territory was located directly next to the headquarters of Russia’s intelligence and security agency, FSB.

“This operation was a year and a half in the making,” Zelensky said in a video statement. “Our people involved in preparing the operation were withdrawn from Russian territory in time. It’s an absolutely brilliant result.”

How the Attack Was Conducted

The Ukrainian drones, which carried explosives, were smuggled into Russia by hiding them inside wooden structures loaded onto trucks. The trucks made their way to the perimeter of the targeted air bases, where the roofs of the wooden structures were opened remotely, allowing the drones to take off and initiate the attack.

This clever modus operandi allowed the Ukrainian forces to catch the Russian military off guard, resulting in significant damage to their airbases.

A Message to Russia

The attack is seen as a clear message to Russia that Ukraine will not back down in the face of aggression. Zelensky has called the strike an act of self-defense, aimed at compelling Russia to end the war.

“Ukraine is defending itself, and rightly so – we are doing everything to make Russia feel the need to end this war,” Zelensky said. “Russia started this war, Russia must end it. Glory to Ukraine!”

What’s Next?

As the international community continues to watch the situation unfold, Ukraine is set to push for a full and unconditional ceasefire in upcoming talks with Russia in Istanbul. The success of the “Spider’s Web” operation has given Ukraine a significant negotiating chip, and it remains to be seen how Russia will

Content originally published by www.hindustantimes.com