Ukraine destroys 40 aircraft deep inside Russia ahead of peace talks in Istanbul

Ukraine has launched a sophisticated drone attack, destroying over 40 Russian aircraft deep within Russian territory, including long-range bombers crucial for missile strikes. This operation, meticulously planned and supervised by President Zelenskyy, involved smuggling FPV drones into Russia and launching them from mobile units. The attack targeted airfields in regions like Irkutsk and Murmansk, with Ukraine claiming it destroyed 34% of Russia's air missile carriers, valued at an estimated $7 billion. Russia confirmed damage to aircraft and fires on air bases, though the exact extent of the destruction could not be independently verified. The U.S. was reportedly not notified of the attack beforehand and noted its high level of sophistication. This significant drone strike occurred just hours before a new round of direct peace talks scheduled in Istanbul. Simultaneously, Russia conducted its largest drone assault on Ukraine since the invasion began, launching 472 drones and seven missiles. Earlier on Sunday, a Russian missile strike on a Ukrainian army training unit killed at least 12 service members and injured over 60, leading to the resignation of a respected Ukrainian commander. The incidents highlight the ongoing intensity and evolving tactics in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.