Ukraine claims destruction of Russian Tu-95 bomber
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported the destruction of a strategic Tu-95 bomber at the Engels airbase in Russia. The aircraft was used for missile attacks against Ukraine.
Ukraine has reported the destruction of a Russian strategic Tu-95 bomber at the Engels airbase, located approximately 800 kilometers from the Ukrainian border. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced on social media that the aircraft had been used by Russian forces for missile attacks against Ukraine. He stated that Ukraine is defending itself "justly and proactively."
The incident occurs amid a backdrop of intensified Ukrainian drone attacks targeting Russian oil refineries, which have led to fuel shortages within Russia. Consequently, Russia has begun importing gasoline from Kazakhstan, with Belarus and India also supplying fuel.
The announcement of the bomber's destruction coincides with the European Union's declaration of new sanctions against Russia's drone industry. These measures target a Russian executive and five companies involved in drone production, including asset freezes and travel bans.
Furthermore, cooperative efforts to support Ukraine have been strengthened. The German Bundeswehr will participate in a French nuclear exercise for the first time. Germany and France have also agreed to take part in a joint military exercise in Eastern Europe.