Fact Check: Ukrainian drones destroy two Russian Su-34 jets in Volgograd airfield strike

Fact Check: "Ukrainian drones destroy two Russian Su-34 jets in Volgograd airfield strike"

What We Know

On June 27, 2025, Ukrainian forces conducted a drone strike on the Marinovka airfield located in Russia's Volgograd region. Reports from various sources indicate that this operation resulted in the destruction of two Russian Su-34 fighter-bombers and damage to two additional aircraft. The attack was carried out by Ukraine's Security Service (SSU), Armed Forces, and Special Operations Forces, utilizing long-range drones to penetrate deep into Russian territory (Ukrainska Pravda, BulgarianMilitary, Defence UA).

The strike also ignited a fire in the airfield's technical maintenance area, which is crucial for the upkeep and readiness of military aircraft. The Su-34s are significant for Russia's military operations, as they are primarily used to conduct airstrikes against Ukrainian positions (Ukrainska Pravda, Defence UA).

Analysis

The claim that Ukrainian drones destroyed two Russian Su-34 jets is supported by multiple credible sources. The Security Service of Ukraine confirmed the operation, stating that it resulted in the destruction of two Su-34s and damage to two others (Ukrainska Pravda). Additionally, reports from military analysts highlight the strategic implications of this strike, noting that it exposes vulnerabilities in Russia's airbase defenses and disrupts their operational capabilities (BulgarianMilitary, Defence UA).

However, some sources, such as Defence UA, mention preliminary reports indicating that four Su-34s were damaged in total, which adds a layer of complexity to the claim. This discrepancy suggests that while the destruction of two aircraft is confirmed, the extent of damage to the additional two jets may vary based on the source.

The reliability of the sources is generally high, as they include official statements from Ukraine's military and reputable military analysis platforms. However, it is important to note that the situation in conflict zones can lead to varying reports due to the fog of war, and independent verification of such claims can be challenging.

Conclusion

The claim that Ukrainian drones destroyed two Russian Su-34 jets in a strike on the Marinovka airfield is True. The evidence from multiple credible sources supports the assertion that the operation resulted in the destruction of two aircraft and damage to two others. The strike not only signifies a tactical achievement for Ukraine but also raises questions about the effectiveness of Russia's air defense systems.

Fact Check: Ukrainian drones destroy two Russian Su-34 jets in Volgograd airfield strike