Ukrainian military authorities announced Monday that a large-scale drone offensive, code-named Operation Spider’s Web, had inflicted damage on at least 41 Russian aircraft stationed in occupied territories, marking one of the most extensive single-day airfield attacks since the beginning of the war.
The announcement came as diplomatic efforts between Ukraine and Russia stumbled in Istanbul, where representatives from both nations have been engaged in weeks-long talks aimed at ending the conflict.
Colonel Andriy Melnyk, a spokesperson for Ukraine’s General Staff, stated in a press briefing that the strikes targeted “multiple airfields used by occupying forces,” adding that unmanned aerial systems were deployed in “synchronized waves” to evade Russian air defenses.
“Preliminary assessments indicate successful damage to both fixed-wing combat aircraft and support units,” said Melnyk. “The operation was designed to disrupt air superiority and logistical supply lines.”
Photographs released by the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense appeared to show smoke and debris at Russian-held airfields in Saki and Belbek, both located in Crimea. Russian officials acknowledged disturbances at military sites but disputed Ukraine’s figures, with Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov describing the Ukrainian account as “fabricated and unverified.”
In Moscow, officials said only minor damage was sustained and promised swift repairs. “There has been no significant impact on operational capability,” read a statement from the Russian Ministry of Defense.
The attacks coincided with a reported breakdown in peace talks held in Istanbul. According to European diplomats familiar with the discussions, negotiations have stalled over the question of territorial sovereignty and NATO involvement.
“Ukraine insists on full territorial restoration, including Crimea and Donbas, while Russia is unwilling to concede any ground gained since 2014,” said a French envoy, speaking on condition of anonymity.
Turkey, acting as host and facilitator, has so far refrained from public comment. However, sources inside the Turkish foreign ministry expressed concern that renewed hostilities could render negotiations “futile.”
Reactions from the international community have been varied. The United States reaffirmed its support for Ukraine’s defense operations, with Pentagon Press Secretary John Kirby noting that “Ukraine has the right to defend its territory, though we continue to advocate for a peaceful solution.”
Conversely, Belarus and Iran issued statements condemning the drone strikes as “escalatory” and “contrary to international norms.”
Military analysts say the operation underscores Ukraine’s increasing reliance on asymmetric warfare and high-tech weaponry. “This is part of a broader shift in tactics, moving away from conventional ground offensives,” noted Dr. Emilia Novak of the Warsaw Security Forum.
As the war enters its third year, both sides appear entrenched, with limited appetite for compromise. Observers warn that continued attacks on military infrastructure could provoke harsh retaliation, further reducing the likelihood of a diplomatic breakthrough.
The Ukrainian government has not commented on whether additional operations are planned.
