- On June 1, 2025, Ukraine executed Operation ‘Spiderweb’, deploying 117 FPV drones to strike five Russian airbases, including one in Siberia.
- The attack reportedly damaged or destroyed over 40 Russian aircraft, including nuclear-capable bombers, inflicting an estimated $7 billion in losses.
- The operation, conducted just before peace talks in Istanbul, has escalated tensions and raised concerns over potential nuclear responses from Russia.Wikipedia+4The Washington Post+4The Sun+4The Economic Times+2The Times of India+2Financial Times+2The Times of India+2New York Post+2The Washington Post+2
In a bold and unprecedented move, Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) launched Operation ‘Spiderweb’ on June 1, 2025, targeting five Russian airbases deep within Russian territory.
The timing of the operation, occurring just before scheduled peace talks in Istanbul, suggests a strategic move by Ukraine to strengthen its negotiating position.
Operation ‘Spiderweb’: Ukraine’s Deep Strike Raises Stakes in Russia-Ukraine Conflict
Operation ‘Spiderweb’ marks a significant escalation in Ukraine’s military strategy, showcasing its ability to conduct deep strikes within Russian territory. By targeting strategic bombers and surveillance aircraft, Ukraine aims to degrade Russia’s long-range strike capabilities, which have been used to launch missile attacks against Ukrainian infrastructure. The successful execution of such a complex operation indicates a high level of planning and intelligence gathering by Ukrainian forces.Wikipedia+4The Times of India+4Financial Times+4
The operation’s success also exposes vulnerabilities in Russia’s air defense and internal security measures. The use of drones launched from within Russian territory suggests potential gaps in surveillance and counter-drone capabilities. This could prompt Russia to reassess and bolster its domestic security protocols to prevent future incursions.
Internationally, the strikes have reignited concerns over the potential for nuclear escalation. Russia’s updated nuclear doctrine allows for the use of nuclear weapons in response to attacks on its strategic assets, even if conducted with conventional weapons. While there is no immediate indication of a nuclear response, the situation underscores the fragile balance and the importance of diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions.Reddit
As peace talks proceed in Istanbul, the impact of Operation ‘Spiderweb’ on the negotiations remains uncertain. Ukraine may leverage the operation’s success to strengthen its position, while Russia may perceive it as a provocation, potentially complicating dialogue. The international community will be closely monitoring developments, emphasizing the need for restraint and constructive engagement from all parties involved.New York Post+5The Washington Post+5Financial Times+5
Operation ‘Spiderweb’ represents a pivotal moment in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, highlighting Ukraine’s evolving military capabilities and the escalating stakes. The international community must remain vigilant and proactive in supporting diplomatic solutions to prevent further escalation and potential miscalculations.
“There has been no need to use those (nuclear) weapons … and I hope they will not be required. We have enough strength and means to bring what was started in 2022 to a logical conclusion with the outcome Russia requires.” — Russian President Vladimir Putin, May 4, 2025.
