Ukrainian Strike Hits Crimea Airbase, Destroys Three Russian Warplanes: Satellite Firm Reports

A recent Ukrainian strike on the Belbek airbase in Crimea destroyed three Russian warplanes and a fuel facility, raising tensions in the region. The attack, utilizing long-range drones or missiles, highlights ongoing tensions between Ukraine and Russia over the annexed territory.

A recent incident involving a long-range Ukrainian strike on the Belbek airbase, located in occupied Crimea under Moscow's control, has raised tensions in the region. According to reports from U.S. commercial satellite company Maxar, satellite imagery taken on Thursday revealed significant damage to the airbase.

The imagery confirmed that three Russian warplanes were destroyed in the attack, including two MiG-31 fighter jets and an Su-27 fighter jet. Additionally, a fuel facility near the main runway was also hit, causing substantial damage. One MiG-29 fighter aircraft was observed to have sustained damage as well.

Despite the evident destruction, Ukraine has not officially claimed responsibility for the strike. However, the Russian defence ministry asserted that Ukraine had launched an overnight attack on Crimea. It reported that its air defence forces intercepted five long-range missiles, identified as ATACMS, during the assault.

This incident follows a similar occurrence on Wednesday, where Russia claimed to have intercepted 10 long-range ATACMS missiles aimed at Crimea. However, no damage to military facilities was reported from this attack.

In recent times, Ukraine has increasingly utilized long-range drones and missiles to target strategic locations beyond the front lines. Crimea, particularly, has been a focal point due to its annexation by Russian forces in 2014.

The situation underscores the ongoing tensions between Ukraine and Russia, with Crimea remaining a flashpoint in the conflict. The use of advanced weaponry in such attacks raises concerns about further escalation and the potential for broader regional instability.

As international observers monitor the developments closely, the need for diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions and find a peaceful resolution becomes ever more urgent. The repercussions of continued hostilities in the region extend beyond the immediate parties involved, impacting stability in Europe and beyond.