40 Russian Aircraft Downed By Ukraine: Reports

As per the media reports, Ukrainian drones launched an assault on a military unit located in the Sredny settlement within Russia's Irkutsk region, resulting in visible plumes of smoke. This incident is part of the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine and unfolded on June 1, 2025, as captured in photographs by Reuters. This aggressive maneuver targeted over 40 Russian military aircraft, marking a significant escalation in hostilities.

Igor Kobzev, the governor of the region, confirmed the attack on the military establishment in Sredny, highlighting the increasing tension in the area. The Ukrainian forces specifically targeted Russian strategic bombers, including the Tu-95 and Tu-22, which are known for their capability to launch long-range missiles against Ukraine. This was detailed in reports citing officials from Ukraine's domestic security service, the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU).

In retaliation to the Ukrainian drone strikes, Russia had previously executed its largest aerial offensive of the war. This assault involved the deployment of 367 drones and missiles across various Ukrainian cities. The attack resulted in the death of 13 individuals, including three children in Zhytomyr, and left dozens injured. The targets included major urban centers like Kyiv, Kharkiv, Mykolaiv, Ternopil, and Khmelnytskyi, causing extensive damage to residential buildings and critical infrastructure. Despite Ukraine's air force successfully intercepting 266 drones and 45 missiles, the destruction was significant.

Moreover, recent developments have seen explosions and thick smoke near the Olenya Air Base in the Murmansk region, a site crucial to Russia's strategic aviation capabilities, even capable of housing nuclear-armed aircraft. Belarusian news outlet NEXTA shared footage of the aftermath, suggesting a potential drone strike, though official confirmation was pending at the time. If verified, this strike would represent a significant breach of Russia's military defenses since the conflict's inception.

The escalation follows a week after Moscow announced it had thwarted an attack by around 100 Ukrainian drones, including several aimed at the capital. Russia's Defence Ministry reported that its air defense units neutralized 95 Ukrainian drones in a short span, highlighting the ongoing intense military engagements between the two nations.

Amid these hostilities, the United States has urged Russia at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to agree to a comprehensive ceasefire in Ukraine. Describing it as "Russia's best possible outcome," the US called upon President Vladimir Putin to embrace this opportunity for peace. The proposed ceasefire includes a 30-day cessation of all military activities, including attacks on critical infrastructure, which Ukraine has already agreed to, pending Russia's acceptance.