Ukrainian forces struck a strategic Russian air base over 800 km far inside Russia. They destroyed a Tupolev Tu-95 bomber carried out for high‑risk missions. The operation happened at the Engels air base. President Zelenskyy labelled it a significant hit on Russia’s strike power. The Tu-95 can deliver nuclear payloads. This attack reached further into Russia than any previous before since 2022. Outside observers verified the strike occurred.