**Russia’s Bold Move: Bombers Fly Over Baltic in First Mission Since Ukraine’s Surprise Attacks**
In a daring display of military might, Russia has sent its Tu-22M3 long-range bomber planes on a flight over the Baltic Sea. This is the first such mission since Ukraine carried out a stunning drone attack on Russian air bases in Siberia and the far north earlier this month.
According to reports, the Tu-22M3 bombers flew for more than four hours over neutral waters, escorted by fighter planes from foreign countries – likely NATO members. This show of strength is seen as an attempt by Russia to demonstrate business as usual despite the Ukrainian attacks.
**A Message of Deterrence**
The Tu-22M3 and Tu-95MS bombers, also known as Backfire and Bear-H respectively, are part of Russia’s long-range aviation fleet used throughout the war to attack Ukrainian cities and military targets. The Bear-H and Tu-160M Blackjack aircraft are nuclear-capable, forming part of Russia’s strategic nuclear deterrent.
Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov claimed that Moscow’s potential for nuclear deterrence against the United States has not been affected by the Ukrainian attacks. However, commercial satellite images suggest that up to 20 warplanes were hit, with around half being destroyed.
**Russia Accuses West of Complicity**
Ryabkov accused Western countries, including NATO members, of providing technical assistance to Ukraine in targeting and transmitting real-time data during the drone attack. This, he claimed, made them complicit in the strikes against Russia’s air bases.
“These countries… took this step, deliberately testing our patience and endurance,” Ryabkov said, without providing evidence. The United States has denied any involvement or prior knowledge of the Ukrainian operation, dubbed “Spider’s Web.”
**A Bold Response to Ukrainian Attacks**
Russia’s decision to fly bombers over the Baltic Sea in response to Ukraine’s drone attacks is a bold move that highlights the escalating tensions between the two countries. As Russia seeks to assert its military strength and deterrence capabilities, this mission sends a clear message: business as usual for Moscow.
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