The Russian military has removed several fighter jets from the Engels air base, which was attacked yesterday. The messages cannot be independently verified, but strategy analyst Patrick Bolder of the Center for Strategic Studies in The Hague thinks there is some truth to the story.
It is the second time that the same airbase – quite far away in Russia – has been attacked. “This is the air base where the Russian strategic bombers are stationed,” he says. “Not only those bombers that can deliver nuclear weapons, but also bombers that are used to launch cruise missiles, etc., against Ukraine.”
An important base for the Russians, but also for the Ukrainians. “Now they are always focusing on that base because now they also see that the planes taking off there make life difficult for Ukraine.”
Direct benefit
Bolder therefore thinks the Ukrainian attacks on the base will provide a direct advantage. “In fact, he is aimed at this. Of course you can never destroy an entire base at once, but it’s the second time.’
The base itself is about 500-600 kilometers from the Ukrainian border, and because it’s so deep in Russia, Bolder thinks that’s why Russia moved the bombers. “It hasn’t been confirmed yet, but Ukrainian intelligence reports that the planes have been scattered among other bases.”
Four dead Ukrainians
However, what has been confirmed by Ukraine is that four Ukrainian servicemen were killed on Russian soil. Special Forces, says Bolder. It was a special military operation, but not in the way Putin envisioned. These are special forces, i.e. commandos that operate deep behind the lines and gather intelligence. Maybe even supporting the insurgents in attacks on Russian infrastructure, etc. We’ve seen it before.’
Bolder points out that the attacks are taking place on Russian territory and she stings. “These are annoying pinpricks, because it means Russia has no control over the security of its own people and troops,” she concludes. And that’s a painful message when she gets to them. That Ukraine operates in its own country and not vice versa. In this regard, it is strategically important for Russia to stop the attacks.’
Source: BNR
Sharon Rock is an author and journalist who writes for 24 News Globe. She has a passion for learning about different cultures and understanding the complexities of the world. With a talent for explaining complex global issues in an accessible and engaging way, Sharon has become a respected voice in the field of world news journalism.
