The Daily

Inside Operation Spider’s Web

492 snips
Jun 4, 2025
Marc Santora, a New York Times reporter covering the war in Ukraine, dives into the audacious Operation Spider’s Web. This innovative drone strike caused extensive damage to Russian airpower while showcasing Ukraine's strategic ingenuity. Santora discusses how this operation redefines modern warfare and reveals Ukraine's ability to challenge traditional military tactics. He also explores the implications of U.S. support and the use of advanced technology in aerial assaults, emphasizing the evolving landscape of conflict.
Ask episode
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
ANECDOTE

Surprise Drone Attack 3,000 Miles Away

  • On Sunday, small quadcopter drones launched from trucks caused explosions at Russian airfields 3,000 miles away in Siberia.
  • The strike was surprising, innovative, and a significant moment in Ukraine's war tactics.
INSIGHT

Drones as Strategic Equalizers

  • Ukraine uses drones as a low-cost strategic weapon to counter long-range Russian missile bombardments.
  • Drones have been crucial for Ukrainian defense, turning the tide against a larger, better-armed enemy.
INSIGHT

Drone Evolution and Russian Adaptation

  • Ukraine evolved its drone capabilities from small frontline quadcopters to long-range drones targeting Russian airfields.
  • Russia's adaptations forced Ukraine to innovate with secret drone strategies inside Russian territory, leading to Operation Spider's Web.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Get the app