Ukraine Downs Russian Bomber, 8 Killed in Major Attack

Ukraine claims to have shot down a Russian Tu-22M3 supersonic bomber for the first time, stating that the aircraft was on its way to attack Ukraine. The Main Intelligence Directorate of Ukraine coordinated the operation with Ukraine's Air Force, hitting the bomber in southern Russia. The Russian Ministry of Defense claimed the aircraft crashed due to a technical malfunction, with two pilots ejecting and one pilot killed. Ukrainian military intelligence spokesperson Andrii Yusov stated that a second Russian aircraft was forced to turn back after the first one was shot down, potentially preventing another missile attack on Ukraine. The Tu-22M3 has been a key target for Ukrainian air defense, with Russia using it in airstrikes against Ukraine.