Ukraine’s Longest Drone Strike Hits Russian Bombers

Ukraine conducted a highly coordinated drone assault deep inside Russia, deploying 117 drones in an operation prepared for over a year, reportedly destroying over 40 military aircraft and causing up to $7 billion in damages while striking 34% of Russia's strategic cruise missile carriers. President Zelenskyy called it a 'brilliant operation' and the longest-range strike of the war. In response, Russia launched a record 472 drones at Ukraine, causing significant civilian and infrastructure damage, particularly in Zaporizhzhia. Explosions also caused the collapse of two bridges near the border, which Russia attributed to Ukrainian attacks. Both aerial offensives occurred on the eve of Istanbul peace talks, where Ukraine is proposing a 30-day ceasefire and prisoner exchanges. The intensified strikes reflect efforts by both sides to gain leverage ahead of negotiations.