**Ukrainian Drones Strike Russian Airfields, Rattling International Airlines**
In a surprise attack, Ukrainian drones struck four Russian military airfields on June 1st, causing significant damage to Russian aircraft. This bold operation, known as Operation Web, has left the international aviation community reeling.
According to reports, the Security Service of Ukraine launched AI-powered drones from trucks deep within Russian territory, hitting aircraft at the Bila, Dyagilevo, Olenya, and Ivanovo airbases. This daring strike has resulted in over 40 Russian planes being damaged or destroyed, a staggering blow to Russia’s military capabilities.
**International Airlines Reconsider Flights to Russia**
The implications of this attack are far-reaching, with international airlines now reassessing their operations in Russia. Emirates, the world’s largest long-haul carrier, has announced plans to review its flights to Russia, citing concerns over Ukrainian drone attacks on Russian soil. While the airline does not intend to reduce the number of flights immediately, it will closely monitor the situation and be prepared to make changes if necessary.
“We’ll be reviewing all of this,” said Emirates president Tim Clark in an interview with Bloomberg. “This latest event was a little more worrying… We have contingency plans in place, including carrying enough fuel for pilots to exit Russian airspace or avoid landing near Moscow if needed.”
**Russian Military in Crisis**
The loss of these aircraft is a significant blow to Russia’s military, particularly the Tu-160 supersonic missile carriers. With only about 18 of these planes remaining, and none built from scratch since the Soviet Union collapsed, Russia faces an uphill battle in replacing them.
According to Oleh Katkov, editor-in-chief of Defense Express, Russia has no viable way to replace the aircraft lost in Operation Web. This has major implications for Russia’s military capabilities, particularly in its ability to project power and defend its interests.
**The Future of Flights to Russia**
As international airlines reassess their operations in Russia, it remains to be seen how this will impact air travel to and from Russia. One thing is clear, however: the Ukrainian drone attack on Russian airfields has opened a Pandora’s box for the global aviation community.
Read More @ euromaidanpress.com
