This article reports on a recent attack by Ukraine’s Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) against Russian air bases, using drones specifically designed for this purpose. The attack, codenamed “Operation Spiderweb”, was successful in destroying several Russian planes at multiple locations.
Key points from the article include:
* The SBU used drones designed to bypass Russian defenses and effectively strike strategic aviation.
* The operation targeted legitimate military targets, including airfields and aircraft that attacked Ukrainian cities.
* President Volodymyr Zelensky claimed that roughly half of the 41 targeted planes were damaged beyond repair.
* NATO estimates that between 10 and 13 Russian planes were completely destroyed, with more damaged.
* Russia acknowledged damage to its aircraft but claimed all would be restored.
Separately, the article also reports on a draft joint declaration for the upcoming NATO summit, which omits Ukraine’s membership aspirations and last year’s pledge of over $40 billion in support. The document focuses on defense spending and recognizes Russia as a threat, but not an aggressor in Ukraine.
Key points from this part of the article include:
* The final version of the statement can still change.
* NATO allies will pledge to allocate at least 3.5% of GDP to defense needs and 1.5% to protecting infrastructure and civil preparedness by 2032.
* Member states may consider counting their contributions to Ukraine as part of the new defense spending targets.
Overall, the article provides information on recent developments in Ukraine’s war against Russia, including a successful attack by Ukraine’s SBU and changes in NATO’s approach to defense spending.
