A Ukrainian military strike has reportedly caused significant damage to a Russian airfield, destroying a large stockpile of bombs and damaging several warplanes, in what analysts are calling one of Ukraine’s most strategic air attacks in recent weeks.
The strike, which occurred late Thursday, targeted a Russian airbase located in the occupied region of Crimea. According to Ukrainian defense sources, the operation was carried out using long-range precision weapons, resulting in secondary explosions and fires that raged for hours.
Ukrainian Air Force spokesperson Yuriy Ihnat confirmed the success of the operation, stating that at least three Russian fighter jets were disabled, and hundreds of aerial bombs meant for future sorties were destroyed in the attack.
Open-source satellite imagery and videos shared on social media showed plumes of black smoke billowing from the airbase and the charred remains of several military assets.
Russia, while acknowledging the attack, has downplayed its impact. Kremlin officials said some infrastructure was affected but denied the loss of aircraft or munitions. However, independent military analysts suggest the strike may severely hinder Russian air operations in southern Ukraine in the short term.
This development comes amid a renewed Ukrainian counteroffensive aimed at reclaiming territory and crippling Russia’s supply and air capabilities. The attack marks a continuation of Kyiv’s strategy to hit high-value military targets deep within Russian-controlled zones, using domestically developed drones and Western-supplied long-range missiles.
International observers have warned that such escalations could further intensify the conflict as both sides continue to trade heavy strikes across multiple fronts.
