The Russia-Ukraine war has taken a dangerous turn after Ukraine’s bold drone attack, codenamed Operation Spider Web, struck deep inside Russian territory. On June 1, 2025, Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) used 117 drones to hit four Russian airbases, damaging over 40 aircraft, including nuclear-capable Tu-95 and Tu-22M3 bombers. This attack, hailed by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as Ukraine’s biggest long-range strike, has caused an estimated $7 billion in losses, wiping out 34% of Russia’s strategic air fleet. While Ukraine celebrates this historic blow, the world holds its breath, fearing Russian President Vladimir Putin might respond with nuclear weapons. With Russia’s updated nuclear doctrine and advanced missiles like the RS-28 Sarmat, Iskander-M, Oreshnik, and Kh-22/Kh-32, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Is this the tipping point for a global catastrophe?
Operation Spider Web was a masterstroke of covert warfare. Ukrainian drones, smuggled into Russia inside trucks with hidden compartments, were released remotely to strike airbases with pinpoint accuracy. The attack didn’t just destroy planes; it hit Russia’s pride and its nuclear triad, the backbone of its deterrence strategy. Zelenskyy called it a moment for history books, but the celebration may be short-lived. Russia’s response could reshape the war—and the world.
Putin has been clear about his red lines. Last year, he revised Russia’s nuclear doctrine, lowering the threshold for using nuclear weapons. Now, even a conventional attack backed by a nuclear power—like Ukraine’s drone strikes supported by Western weapons—could trigger a nuclear response. According to the Federation of American Scientists, Russia has 5,460 nuclear warheads, with 1,718 ready to launch. This massive arsenal, combined with advanced delivery systems, makes Russia’s threats chillingly real.
Bureau Report
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