**Russia’s Airbase in Crimea Hit by Ukraine’s Drones**
In a significant development, Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) carried out a drone strike on the Saky airbase in Russian-occupied Crimea. The attack targeted five Russian fighter jets, with one Su-30SM aircraft destroyed and three others damaged. An aviation weapons depot was also hit.
The SBU described the operation as a “successful special operation” that weakened Russia’s capacity to wage war against Ukraine. The damage is considered significant, with a single Su-30SM jet valued between $35 million and $50 million.
This is not the first time Ukraine has targeted Russian airbases using drones. The strike on the Saky airbase plays a critical role in Russia’s military operations in the Black Sea.
**Massive Drone Strike Targets Railway Station in Volgograd Oblast**
A massive Ukrainian drone strike hit the Archeda railway station in the town of Frolovo, Volgograd Oblast, overnight. The attack caused rail travel disruptions and temporarily closed a regional airport. Independent media outlet Astra reported that a fire broke out at the station.
Volgograd Oblast Governor Andrei Bocharov claimed that drones targeted transport and energy facilities in the oblast, describing the attack as “massive.” Russian Railways also reported a suspension of train services in Frolovo.
This is not an isolated incident; Ukraine’s military has regularly targeted the region with drones. However, Ukrainian forces rarely comment on drone strikes on Russian territory.
**Ukraine Destroys Russian S-300 Surface-to-Air Missile System**
Ukrainian forces destroyed a Russian S-300 surface-to-air missile system in a recent operation. The S-300 is a powerful air defense system that can intercept and destroy incoming missiles.
The destruction of the S-300 system is a significant blow to Russia’s air defenses, which have been increasingly challenged by Ukraine’s growing air capabilities.
**Corruption Probe Involving Military Procurement**
A corruption probe has revealed a high-level scheme tied to military procurement in Ukraine. Two individuals, including President Volodymyr Zelensky’s party member Serhii Haidai, were jailed for 60 days with bail set at $240,000 each.
The investigation involves six individuals and is being carried out by Ukraine’s National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAPO). The scheme allegedly involved inflated state contracts for drones and electronic warfare equipment.
**Netherlands to Deliver $579 Million in US Weapon Systems to Ukraine**
The Netherlands will deliver a 500 million euros ($579 million) military aid package to Ukraine, consisting of U.S.-made weapon systems, including Patriot missile components. Dutch Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans announced the decision on August 4.
President Volodymyr Zelensky welcomed the decision, saying it would provide greater protection for Ukraine and Europe against Russian aggression. The move is seen as a significant step by NATO countries to enhance Ukraine’s air defense capabilities.
