Ukrainian Forces Down Putin's £11m Su-25 Warplane Near Toretsk

A Ukrainian missile shot down a Russian Su-25 attack plane near the village of Zaitsevo in the Donetsk region, resulting in dramatic footage of the aircraft exploding upon impact. The pilot successfully ejected and was reportedly safe, although a subsequent Russian rescue helicopter attempting to retrieve him was targeted by Ukrainian drones and electronic warfare measures. Russian sources acknowledged the loss of the plane but downplayed the incident, stating the pilot is in the hospital and doing well. Meanwhile, Russia claims to have captured the city of Toretsk, a statement that Ukraine refutes, asserting that fighting continues on the city's outskirts. The ongoing conflict in Donetsk has seen significant casualties, with heavy Russian assaults in the area contributing to ongoing tensions and fighting. The situation highlights the strategic importance of Toretsk in the broader context of the war.