**Ukraine's Drone Assault Strikes Key Russian Bomber Bases**

Ukraine has reportedly executed a significant drone operation targeting Russian airfields, resulting in the destruction of strategic bombers, according to claims by Ukrainian sources. The strikes were conducted by Ukraine's security service, targeting at least two airfields located far from the conflict zones.

An SBU source informed the Kyiv Independent that numerous Russian strategic bombers were destroyed in the operation. Footage from Olenya airbase in the Arctic and Belaya base in Siberia shows burning rows of Russian strategic and nuclear-capable bombers. This suggests that Russian efforts to protect its expensive bombers by relocating them north and east were unsuccessful.

The simultaneous attacks raise questions about the operational range of Ukraine’s drones. Some reports indicate that these drones may have been launched from within Russian territory. This mass drone strike follows attacks on Russian railways, which led to derailed trains and the loss of at least seven lives.

In response, Russia conducted what Ukraine described as the largest drone assault since the conflict began three years ago. According to Ukraine’s air force, Russia launched 472 drones and seven missiles, with Ukrainian defenses managing to neutralize 382 drones and three missiles.

Furthermore, a significant explosion was reported in Severomorsk, home to the Russian Northern Fleet's main naval base. Although the origin of the explosion remains unconfirmed, footage depicts a large blast and subsequent dust cloud rising over the city.

In another development, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed Ukraine's participation in a second round of direct talks with Russia in Istanbul. This comes after uncertainty about Kyiv's attendance due to the Kremlin's refusal to share its peace settlement plans in advance. Zelensky stated that Defense Minister Rustem Umerov would lead the Ukrainian delegation.

These drone attacks on Russian airfields mark a notable escalation in the conflict, with reports indicating that over 40 aircraft, including vital Tu-95 and Tu-22 bombers, were destroyed. Some of these aircraft are essential assets for Russia, with an A-50 aircraft having a staggering $350 million price tag.

This series of strikes, following rail bombings that disrupted Russian logistics, signal a significant tactic shift from Ukraine. The Kremlin has labeled the rail attacks as acts of terrorism, marking an intensifying phase of the conflict.

Ukrainian strategic communications have called this a historically bad day for the Russian air force, underscored by the destruction of pivotal military assets. As both sides brace for further confrontations, these events reflect the unpredictable and escalating nature of the ongoing war.