Ukrainian forces struck a key Russian air base over 800 km deep inside Russia. They eliminated a Tupolev Tu-95 bomber carried out for high‑risk missions. The operation happened at this Engels air base. President Zelenskyy described it a significant hit on Russia’s strike strength. The Tu-95 can deliver nuclear payloads. This strike reached farther into Russia than any previous before since 2022. Outside observers validated the strike was carried out.