BANDUNG, SEATIZENS – In a daring military operation that shocked the world, Ukraine has once again demonstrated its strength. Ukrainian secret agent Artem Tymofieiev is now a wanted man in Russia, suspected of being the mastermind behind a large-scale drone attack on Russian military facilities, including nuclear bomber bases, last Sunday.
This attack is known as the “Spider Web Operation.” It successfully targeted five key Russian airbases, weakening Moscow’s military capabilities. As a result, Russia’s military image suffered a significant blow, sparking international concern. Many Western analysts and pro-Russian military bloggers have called it the “Pearl Harbor of Russia” due to its surprising and damaging impact.
According to Mail Online on June 3, 2025, Kyiv claimed to have destroyed about 34% of Russia’s heavy bomber fleet, with estimated losses around USD 7 billion. Evidence such as drone footage, satellite images, and cellphone recordings all indicate extensive damage to the targeted bases.
Strategic Impact and Moscow’s Response
This operation is considered one of Ukraine’s most significant military victories. Russian President Vladimir Putin has yet to comment publicly. However, some analysts warn that Russia might respond with nuclear threats or other aggressive measures. Sergei Markov, a Russian analyst, suggested that the Kremlin may wait for the right moment before taking drastic action.
Meanwhile, high-tension talks between Russian and Ukrainian delegations are underway in Istanbul. Many expect Moscow to respond strongly, fearing that this attack endangers Russia’s military reputation and could escalate the conflict further.
According to sources within Ukraine’s SBU intelligence agency, the drone strikes first targeted the Irkutsk airbase, located about 4,000 kilometers from the Ukraine front line. Other targets included Olenya Air Base in Murmansk, Dyagilevo in Ryazan, and Ivanovo. The drones used are capable of carrying missiles and strategic bombs, including those with nuclear potential.
A total of 41 Russian aircraft are reported to have been damaged or destroyed. These included reconnaissance planes and strategic aircraft like the Tupolev Tu-95 and Tu-22M3. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that the attack destroyed over one-third of Russia’s strategic aircraft fleet.
Experts see this as Ukraine’s most significant tactical achievement since late 2022. It has also heightened fears in Moscow about further escalation. Keir Giles from Chatham House warned that Russia might emphasize its nuclear capabilities to intimidate the West and prevent increased support for Kyiv.
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Meanwhile, analysts from the London School of Economics believe Russia will likely downplay the significance of the attack to avoid appearing weak. They expect Russia to wait for an opportunity to launch a larger retaliatory strike.
Long-term Impact and Peace Prospects
This tactical success has further intensified the conflict, signaling a new phase in the ongoing war. Diplomacy efforts, such as the Istanbul talks, remain crucial, though tensions are high. Ukraine refuses to back down from demands for NATO membership and the return of territories Russia previously annexed. Conversely, Moscow is expected to escalate missile strikes and infrastructure attacks against Ukraine.
This development marks a new chapter in a tense and complex conflict. The world watches closely to see how strategic daring and resilience will influence the future of this war.
(Firyal Trinidad)
