Ukrainian Airstrike on Engels-2 Airfield Marks Significant Military Success
Ukraine executed a successful strike on the Engels-2 airfield, destroying 96 Russian air-launched cruise missiles. Following this operation, Russian authorities declared a state of emergency, signifying the attack’s impact. Discussions for a ceasefire are ongoing, although Ukraine’s military activities indicate a sustained offensive strategy against Russian targets.
Last week’s Ukrainian attack on the Engels-2 military airfield near Saratov resulted in the destruction of 96 Russian air-launched cruise missiles, marking it as one of Kyiv’s most effective strikes on Russian munitions this year, according to Ukrainian military officials. Notably, no aircraft were reported hit during the assault, while Ukraine’s overall losses of Russian aircraft surpassed 700, including helicopters and fixed-wing planes.
The strike occurred just prior to discussions in Saudi Arabia involving both Russian and Ukrainian delegates, which aimed at establishing a conditional ceasefire in the Black Sea area. Although proposed terms included a halt on energy infrastructure strikes, Ukraine’s intensified military operations against Russian installations indicate that it is likely to persist in its offensive strategy.
In response to the attack, Russian authorities declared a state of emergency at Engels-2, a base housing strategic bombers with nuclear capabilities. This rare acknowledgment of an attack on a military site exemplifies the impact of the strike from March 19. As video footage showed smoke billowing from the location, it highlighted the significance of Ukraine’s operations deep within Russian territory.
While Ukraine typically refrains from claiming responsibility for strikes in Russia, Andriy Kovalenko from the National Security and Defense Council confirmed the attack aimed at Russian Kinzhal missiles. Ukrainian officials reported substantial losses for Russia, with 96 air-launched missiles destroyed alongside significant damage to aviation fuel supplies, although these claims await independent verification.
According to the U.K. Ministry of Defense, this strike represents the most successful targeting of a Russian munitions depot in 2025, as it continues a trend of Ukrainian operations reaching deeper into Russia. The attack is anticipated to disrupt operations at the airfield and necessitate a replenishment of Russian munitions, compelling aircraft to be relocated to other airfields as a precaution.
The recent Ukrainian airstrike on the Engels-2 airbase signifies a notable escalation in the conflict, with substantial damage inflicted on Russian military assets. As Ukraine continues its offensive approach and intensifies strikes against military facilities, the potential for further disruption of Russian operational capabilities grows. The ongoing discussions for a ceasefire reflect the complex dynamics of the war, yet the military engagements suggest a continued commitment from Ukraine to weaken Russia’s military resources.
Original Source: www.newsweek.com
