Unprecedented Ukrainian Drone Strike Inside Russia — “Successful Execution of a 1 Year, 6 Month, and 9 Day Plan,” Says President Zelensky
Kyiv | June 2, 2025
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has officially addressed the unprecedented drone strike deep inside Russian territory. In a video message circulated on social media, he described the operation as the “successful execution of a plan that was one year, six months, and nine days in the making,” and suggested it could be considered “the most strategic and devastating strike in Russia’s history.”
According to Zelensky, at least 40 strategic bomber aircraft inside Russia were destroyed in this covert mission, including planes capable of carrying cruise missiles. “This operation was the longest-range and most secret military mission in Ukraine’s history,” said the president. “It’s a remarkable military feat, worthy of a place in history.”
Internal Details of the Operation:
Reports indicate that the mission targeted at least four strategic airbases within Russian territory. Several of these bases are known as operational hubs for cruise missile-carrying aircraft. Ukraine claims that 34% of Russia’s cruise missile carriers were completely destroyed in the attack.
Unprecedented Tactics:
Zelensky revealed that FPV (First Person View) drones used in the operation were smuggled into Russian territory hidden inside mobile wooden cabins. These cabins were placed within standard trucks, with roofs that could be remotely opened to launch 117 FPV drones simultaneously.
The operation was carried out near a regional office of Russia’s intelligence agency FSB, adding to the mission’s complexity and boldness.
Evidence of Damage:
Video footage shows drones striking Russian airbase runways and combat aircraft with extraordinary precision. Each hit was highly targeted and pre-planned.
“All Ukrainian fighters involved in the operation returned safely from Russian territory. That is our greatest achievement,” Zelensky said.
Russia’s Reaction:
Russia’s Ministry of Defense labeled the attack as an act of “terrorist activity.” Several individuals have been detained in connection with the operation, including the driver of the truck used to conceal and transport the drones. According to state-controlled news agency TASS, the driver is being interrogated.
In retaliation, Russia launched a record-breaking counterattack overnight, firing 472 drones and missiles at various regions in Ukraine — the largest Russian counterstrike to date.
Peace Talks in Doubt?
Amid this tense backdrop, Russia-Ukraine peace talks are scheduled to take place tomorrow in Istanbul. Analysts suggest that while this drone operation may not entirely derail the negotiations, it will significantly escalate tensions between both sides.
At the end of his video address, Zelensky stated:
“Ukraine is defending itself — and that is our just right. We are taking steps to make Russia understand that there is no option left but to stop the war. Glory to Ukraine!”
