Ukraine’s Drone Strikes Hit Deep Inside Russia Ahead of Peace Talks: Global Eyes on Conflict from Dubai to Pakistan
In a dramatic escalation of ongoing hostilities, Ukraine launched a wave of drone attacks deep into Russian territory on Sunday, targeting multiple military airbases just one day before critical peace talks in Istanbul. The bold operation is being seen as one of Ukraine’s most extensive and damaging drone offensives since the war began over three years ago.
According to the Russian Defence Ministry, Ukrainian drones targeted airfields in five key regions: Murmansk, Irkutsk, Ivanovo, Ryazan, and Amur. While most attacks were intercepted, significant damage was reported in Murmansk and Irkutsk, where several military aircraft caught fire. The ministry confirmed that First-Person View (FPV) drones were used in the attack, flown in close proximity to the airfields.
No casualties have been reported so far, but several individuals involved in the operation have been detained, according to Russian officials.
Global Implications and Reactions
In a message posted on Telegram, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy praised the operation as “absolutely brilliant,” revealing that 117 drones had been deployed and caused “very tangible” losses for Russia. The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) later stated that the drone strikes had damaged Russian aircraft worth over $7 billion, including Tu-95 and Tu-22 strategic bombers.
The strikes reportedly reached as far as the Belaya airbase in Irkutsk, approximately 4,300 km from Ukraine, and Olenya airbase in Murmansk, about 1,800 km away — showcasing the far-reaching capability of Ukraine’s drone warfare.
These developments have drawn global attention, particularly in regions with close geopolitical and economic ties to the conflict, such as Dubai, Pakistan, and broader South Asia. Both Dubai-based analysts and international observers are monitoring the escalation closely due to its potential impact on global oil markets, aviation security, and migrant worker communities, especially from Pakistan, who have strong ties to both Ukraine and Russia through remittances and employment.
A Pattern of Escalation
Sunday’s attack is part of a growing pattern of aggressive drone warfare on both sides. Last week alone, Russia launched over 900 kamikaze drones and 92 missiles, killing at least 16 civilians in Ukraine. In response, Kyiv targeted key Russian facilities in Tula, Alabuga, and Tatarstan using over 800 drones.
The increased frequency and intensity of these drone operations mark a significant shift in strategy, turning the skies over Eastern Europe into a key battleground. For countries like Pakistan, which maintains balanced diplomatic relations with both Russia and Ukraine, and Dubai, a global logistics and trade hub, stability in the region remains a top concern.
Talks in Istanbul: A Fragile Hope
Despite the violence, peace negotiations resumed on Monday in Istanbul, with Ukraine’s delegation led by Defence Minister Rustem Umerov. The discussions come weeks after both sides agreed to a 1,000-person prisoner exchange. This week’s meeting resulted in another prisoner swap, but no substantial breakthrough was achieved.
President Zelenskyy, skeptical of Russia’s intentions, emphasized that Ukraine’s demands remain firm — including a complete ceasefire, the return of all prisoners, and the repatriation of abducted children. Russia, meanwhile, has presented its own set of terms and rejected Turkey’s proposal to elevate the talks to a leadership level.
The negotiations were partly influenced by former U.S. President Donald Trump’s renewed push for a swift resolution, but analysts suggest the war is far from over.
Why It Matters for Dubai and Pakistan
With thousands of Ukrainian and Russian nationals living and working in Dubai, and strong people-to-people ties between Pakistan and both warring nations, the ripple effects of this conflict extend far beyond Europe. From air travel safety to commodity prices, the implications are significant for both governments and citizens.
As the war enters its fourth year with no clear end in sight, the world — including regions like Dubai and Pakistan — continues to watch with caution, hoping that diplomacy can ultimately succeed where drones cannot.
