WSJ Opinion: Potomac Watch Ukraine's Surprise Drone Operation Hits Russian Bases
Jun 3, 2025
Jillian Melcher, an Editorial board member in London, and Kim Strassel, a columnist, dive into Ukraine's bold drone operation targeting Russian airbases. They discuss how this strategic strike reflects Ukraine's military evolution and its potential effects on the U.S. stance and military dynamics. The conversation also highlights the urgent need for the Pentagon to reassess vulnerabilities exposed by drone warfare, urging policymakers to enhance defenses against evolving threats that could impact national security.
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Ukraine's Deep Drone Strike
- Ukraine staged a daring drone attack deep inside Russia, targeting strategic bombers far from the front lines.
- The strike inflicted approximately $7 billion in damage, impacting about 40% of Russia's strategic bomber fleet.
Drone Strike Undermines Russian Air Advantage
- The drone strike undermines Russia's air superiority and forces it to divert resources to defend its own territory.
- This pressure strains Russia's military focus and diminishes its ability to project power beyond Ukraine.
Implications on Russia's Nuclear and Cruise Capabilities
- Destroying Russia's strategic bombers weakens its nuclear triad and limits nuclear saber rattling.
- The strike stresses Russia’s resources by forcing expanded air defense and disrupting its cruise missile threat.