Context:

Ukraine launched a significant drone assault on Russian air bases across five regions, marking one of the broadest attacks since the war began. The operation resulted in several Russian aircraft catching fire, while Ukraine claimed it was a strategic move planned over a year and a half. The attack came as Russia struck a Ukrainian military training base, killing 12 soldiers and causing more than 60 injuries, prompting the resignation of a Ukrainian military commander. Meanwhile, peace talks are scheduled in Istanbul, though Ukrainian officials accuse Russia of delaying tactics. The conflict has intensified with both sides escalating their military actions amidst ongoing negotiations.

Dive Deeper:

• Ukrainian drones targeted Russian airfields in five regions, including Murmansk and Irkutsk, causing several aircraft to catch fire. This attack spanned across five time zones and marked the first time Siberian regions were targeted by Ukraine.

• The Ukrainian operation involved transporting drones into Russian territory covertly, launching them from trucks near the airfields. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky praised the operation as a significant strategic success.

• Russia retaliated with a missile strike on a Ukrainian military training base in the Dnipro region, resulting in the death of at least 12 soldiers. The attack led to the resignation of Maj. Gen. Mykhailo Drapatyi, who took personal responsibility for the casualties.

• The Ukrainian military emphasized that personnel were in shelters during the air raid, highlighting lessons learned from past attacks. Despite this, the strike raised questions about security protocols within the Ukrainian military.

• The attacks occurred just before planned peace talks in Istanbul, with Ukraine accusing Russia of stalling the negotiations. Despite skepticism, Ukraine confirmed its participation in the talks, with Defense Minister Rustem Umerov leading the delegation.

• Russia conducted a massive overnight aerial assault on Ukraine, involving 472 drones and seven missiles, targeting 18 locations despite Ukrainian efforts to intercept the attacks.

• The day’s escalation in violence underscored the intensifying conflict between Ukraine and Russia, as both sides continue to engage in aggressive military actions amidst diplomatic efforts.