On June 1, 2025, Ukraine executed a significant covert operation, codenamed "Spider’s Web," involving a large-scale drone strike deep within Russian territory. The operation targeted five Russian military airbases—Olenya, Belaya, Ivanovo, Dyagilevo, and Ukrainka—resulting in the destruction or damage of over 40 aircraft, including strategic bombers like the Tu-95 and Tu-22, and the A-50 airborne early warning and control aircraft. The Ukrainian Security Service (SBU) reported that the strikes inflicted approximately $7 billion in damage, impacting about 34% of Russia's strategic cruise missile carriers. 

The operation was meticulously planned over 18 months and personally overseen by President Volodymyr Zelensky. Ukrainian operatives smuggled drones concealed within wooden structures into Russia, which were then mounted on trucks. Upon activation, the roofs of these structures opened remotely, releasing the drones, which were equipped with artificial intelligence to autonomously identify and target aircraft. The drones were launched from within Russian territory, marking a significant escalation in Ukraine's drone warfare capabilities. 

While the Russian Ministry of Defense acknowledged the attacks, it labeled them as "terrorist actions" and claimed that air defenses repelled most of the drones. However, unverified footage and satellite images indicated significant damage at the targeted airbases. The operation has been described as a "game-changer" in modern warfare, showcasing Ukraine's growing technological prowess and strategic ingenuity. 

In the aftermath, Ukrainian President Zelensky hailed the operation as a "brilliant" success, emphasizing that it was a defensive measure aimed at compelling Russia to end the war. The timing of the attack, just before scheduled peace talks in Istanbul, has added complexity to ongoing diplomatic efforts. The operation underscores the evolving nature of warfare, where technological innovation and strategic planning play pivotal roles in shaping military outcomes.