Ukrainian forces hit a strategic Russian air base over 800 km deep inside Russia. They smashed a Tupolev Tu-95 bomber employed in high‑risk missions. The operation happened at this Engels air base. President Zelenskyy described it a decisive hit on Russia’s strike strength. The Tu-95 can deliver nuclear payloads. This raid reached further into Russia than any previous before since 2022. Outside observers confirmed the strike took place.