Ukrainian Forces Reportedly Shoot Down Three Russian Su-34 Fighter-Bombers

Ukrainian forces claimed to have shot down three Russian Su-34 fighter-bombers over eastern Ukraine. (Photo: Forbes)

Ukrainian President Zelenskiy and Military Officials Celebrate Remarkable Accomplishment

President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and military officials hailed the successful downing of three Russian Su-34 fighter bombers on the southern front in what was declared a significant victory against Russia. The development is a watershed in the 22 months of the war, and it shows just how determined Ukraine will be to resist the Russian invasion.

The Russian military has not officially commented on the incident, but various Russian sources have acknowledged the loss, with some suggesting that U.S.-supplied Patriot missiles may have been utilized in the operation.

Despite the lack of independent confirmation, Ukrainian Air Force Commander Mykola Oleshchuk took to the Telegram messaging app to celebrate the achievement, describing the takedown as a “brilliantly planned operation.”

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Air Force spokesperson Yuri Ihnat highlighted the significance of the event, noting that the Su-34 model is among Russia’s most modern aircraft for bombing and other assaults. President Zelenskiy commended the unit responsible for downing the planes, particularly praising the Odesa region anti-aircraft unit for its success in the Kherson region, which was initially occupied during Russia’s February 2022 invasion.

Reports from Russia-based analysts and Ukrainian aviation experts suggest that Ukrainian forces could have utilized Patriot missiles, which have a range of up to 160 km against high-altitude targets, potentially launching them from the western side of the Dnipro River. This strategic move likely caught the Russian aircraft off guard, leading to their downing and significantly impacting Russian operations in the region.

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