Tensions between Ukraine and Russia have escalated dramatically ahead of a new round of peace negotiations scheduled for Monday in Istanbul, Turkey. Ukraine reportedly launched a long-range attack, destroying 41 Russian military aircraft in Siberia. This marks the first time targets over 4,000 kilometers from the border have been hit.
Igor Kobzev, governor of Russia's Irkutsk region, confirmed the attack as the first of its kind in Siberia. Ukrainian President Zelensky described the offensive as "brilliant" and the "longest-range operation" to date. In retaliation, Moscow launched 472 drones over Ukrainian territory, the highest number since the invasion began.
Russia also reported that two bridges in regions bordering Ukraine collapsed due to explosives, treating the incidents as acts of terrorism. Despite the heightened conflict, Zelensky confirmed Ukraine's participation in the peace talks, with Defense Minister Rustem Umerov representing the country. The initial round of negotiations in May resulted in a prisoner exchange but no concrete progress toward ending the conflict.