Ukrainian Forces Conduct Operation in Occupied Crimea
On the night of June 25–26, 2026, units from the Unmanned Systems Department of Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence (GUR) launched an attack on the Belbek military airfield in temporarily occupied Crimea. The operation resulted in the destruction of a Russian MiG-29 fighter jet by Ukrainian intelligence operatives.
During the same assault, Ukrainian special forces also hit an airfield launch vehicle that was servicing the fighter. According to a statement from the GUR:
“In a single strike, GUR special operatives also burned an airfield launch vehicle—at the moment of impact, the vehicle was servicing a combat aircraft of the Russian occupiers.”
Ongoing Military Campaign
This attack is part of broader Ukrainian military actions in the region. For instance, on the night of July 3, Ukraine’s Defense Forces also struck:
- a railway bridge over the Krasnohvardiyskyi Canal;
- a radio-electronic intelligence unit in Sevastopol;
- and other enemy targets within temporarily occupied Crimea.
The GUR emphasizes that 'Crimea is Ukraine! The armed struggle continues! Glory to Ukraine!' These events highlight the active efforts of Ukrainian forces to regain control over occupied territories.
The operations carried out by Ukrainian forces underscore the growing intensity of military actions in temporarily occupied Crimea, potentially signaling strategic shifts in combat approaches. Successful strikes on key military assets could impact the combat readiness of Russian troops in the region, as well as boost the morale of Ukrainian soldiers and civilians. Such actions may also strengthen international support for Ukraine’s efforts to liberate its occupied lands.
In addition to the recent strike in Crimea, Ukrainian forces have also targeted enemy logistics and air defense systems located 300 kilometers away. This series of operations demonstrates a coordinated effort to disrupt Russian military capabilities across a broader front. For more details on these strategic actions, see our coverage of the attacks on occupiers’ supply lines and defenses.