Kyiv’s unprecedented assault on Russian airbases and a naval base has left the Kremlin reeling, raising questions about NATO’s role and Russia’s next move.
Moscow: In a stunning escalation of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Ukraine has launched its largest-ever attack on Russian soil, targeting four major airbases and a naval base, destroying approximately 40 Russian bombers and potentially damaging nuclear submarines and warships. The operation dubbed Spiderweb inspired by ‘operation pearl harbour’ by Ukrainian officials, has triggered emergency meetings in the Kremlin and sparked widespread speculation about NATO and Europe’s involvement in this audacious strike.
Devastating Blow to Russian Air Force
Ukrainian forces executed a meticulously planned drone attack on June 1, 2025, targeting Russia’s Belaya, Ivanovo, Olenya, and Dyagilevo airbases, where nuclear-capable bombers like the Tu-95 and Tu-22, along with A-50 surveillance aircraft, were stationed. Ukrainian intelligence claims the strikes destroyed 34% of Russia’s strategic missile carriers, with damages estimated at $7 billion. President Volodymyr Zelensky hailed the operation as “absolutely brilliant,” stating on X, “This will undoubtedly be in history books. Ukraine is defending itself, and rightly so—we are doing everything to make Russia feel the need to end this war.” The attack also hit the Sevastopol naval base, home to Russia’s nuclear submarines and warships, raising fears of significant damage to its naval assets.
Russian Air Defense Failure Sparks Panic
The failure of Russia’s advanced air defense systems to counter the Ukrainian drones has sent shockwaves through Moscow. Reports indicate that Russian fighter jets and bombers were forced to take flight to avoid further strikes, with air alerts issued nationwide. The Russian Defense Ministry labeled the attack a “terrorist act,” admitting that several aircraft caught fire at multiple bases. Russian Air Force units have begun relocating assets to safer locations, fearing additional Ukrainian strikes. The collapse of two bridges in western Russia on May 31, attributed to Ukrainian sabotage, further compounded the chaos, with one incident causing a train derailment that killed seven, including a locomotive driver.
Kremlin’s Emergency Response
President Vladimir Putin, reportedly furious, convened an urgent meeting of Russia’s Security Council to address the crisis. Sources suggest Putin has ordered retaliatory strikes not only on Kyiv but also on European nations suspected of aiding Ukraine. The Kremlin’s rhetoric has intensified, with spokesperson Dmitry Peskov blaming “reckless Western actions” for escalating the conflict. The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) notes that Russia’s preparations for a protracted war indicate little interest in genuine peace talks, despite scheduled negotiations in Istanbul on June 2, 2025.
NATO and Europe Under Scrutiny
Suspicions of NATO’s involvement have grown, with unverified reports claiming the alliance provided Ukraine with critical intelligence and satellite data to pinpoint Russian targets. Some sources allege NATO may have hacked Russia’s air defense systems, rendering them ineffective. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, echoing Moscow’s sentiments, suggested that such precise strikes likely required advanced Western technology and satellite support. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, however, reiterated the alliance’s commitment to supporting Ukraine’s self-defense without direct involvement, stating, “Ukraine’s future is in NATO, and we will continue to bolster its defenses.” The Polish presidential election, where pro-EU candidate Rafal Trzaskowski’s narrow victory signals continued support for Ukraine, underscores Europe’s divided stance on NATO’s role.
What Lies Ahead?
The attack’s timing, just before peace talks in Istanbul, casts doubt on their success. Ukraine’s delegation, led by Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, plans to propose a 30-day ceasefire and prisoner exchange, but Russia’s low-level delegation signals limited commitment. Analysts warn that Putin’s likely retaliation could escalate the conflict, potentially targeting European nations. The ISW reports that Russia’s recent 400-drone strike on Ukraine on May 31 reflects its intent to overwhelm Ukrainian defenses, suggesting a fierce response is imminent. Ukrainian officials remain defiant, with Zelensky asserting, “We have shown Russia that aggression has consequences.”
Global Implications
The attack has heightened geopolitical tensions, with Asian markets reacting to the uncertainty. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng index fell over 2% on June 2, 2025, amid fears of broader conflict. The U.S., under President Donald Trump, has pushed for peace but faces challenges as Russia escalates. Trump’s recent call with Putin and his suspension of U.S. military aid to Ukraine have strained transatlantic relations, prompting Europe to consider a trillion-dollar defense fund to support Kyiv independently. As the conflict enters a “decisive phase,” per Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, the world watches anxiously for Russia’s next move.