Ukrainian Air Strike Hits Russian Drone Hub Near Huliaipole

(HULIAIPOLE, ZAPORIZHZHIA OBLAST) – Ukrainian forces have carried out a precise air strike on a building used by Russian drone operators near the front line in occupied Huliaipole, according to video footage shared online.

A short clip shows a multi storey structure within a larger complex being struck directly by two aerial bombs. The first impact hits the side of the building, causing visible structural collapse. A second strike follows moments later, hitting another section of the same structure and detonating inside.

The strike was described as highly accurate. Ukrainian authorities have not released details on casualties, but the target was identified as a base for Russian drone operators, making it a significant military objective.

The munitions used were reported to be GBU 62 guided bombs. No information was provided regarding the aircraft used to carry out the strike.

Geolocation analysis placed the strike in an occupied area of Huliaipole, approximately one kilometre from the front line. The location was identified by open source analyst Mickey Ruez del Vuego using satellite imagery and mapping tools.

The area is considered strategically important, as Russian forces have recently made advances there. It is one of the few sectors where Russian offensive activity has shown progress in recent weeks, despite broader setbacks along other parts of the front.

Given the proximity to the front line, the targeted operators were likely controlling attack drones used in direct support of Russian ground forces.

Observers note a marked increase in Ukrainian air strikes over the past year. This has been attributed in part to losses within Russia’s Buk surface to air missile systems, which are designed to engage aircraft conducting such operations. Reduced effectiveness in these air defence systems has created gaps, allowing more frequent Ukrainian strikes behind the front line.

The wider operational picture on the southern front shows continued pressure, although Russian advances remain limited and uneven.