Russian media has identified a former Ukrainian DJ, Artem Timofeev, as the alleged mastermind behind Ukraine’s covert ‘Operation Spiderweb,’ a bold strike that targeted Russia’s strategic bomber fleet deep within its own territory.
Russian Airfields Struck in Daring SAS-Style Raid
On Sunday, four Russian airfields were hit in a coordinated drone attack allegedly planned by Ukraine’s SBU intelligence agency. The operation reportedly damaged 41 warplanes—about a third of Russia’s nuclear bomber fleet—valued at $7 billion.
The long-range strategic bombers, which have launched some of Russia’s most devastating missile strikes on Ukraine, are typically stationed as far as 3,000 miles from Ukrainian borders. However, Ukraine’s security service managed to breach that perimeter with an operation nearly 18 months in the making.
Artem Timofeev Identified as Key Suspect
Russian sources claim 37-year-old Artem Timofeev, a former DJ from Ukraine, operated the logistics for the attack. The Daily Mail reported that Timofeev owned lorries used to transport wooden containers hiding the drones. Several truck drivers told authorities they had received instructions from a man named “Artem.”
The drivers were reportedly told they were delivering wooden frame houses. One Russian blogger revealed that four of the trucks involved were registered under Timofeev’s name, adding that one was used in the Irkutsk region strike.
Suspicions Extend to Timofeev’s Wife
Russian media also suspects Timofeev’s wife, Ekaterina Timofeeva, of involvement in the plot. According to the US Sun, the couple had connections to a flat in Chelyabinsk, where Artem was reportedly seen just a week before the strikes.
Spy Tactics: Trojan Horse Method Used
According to reports, the SBU smuggled drone components into Russia, where operatives assembled them at a hidden location. The drones were concealed in the rooftops of wooden containers and delivered near air bases using unsuspecting truckers. The roofs then remotely slid open, unleashing dozens of drones.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky later said, “All those involved with the operation had been removed from Russia.” If Timofeev played a role in the mission, he may have already escaped Russian territory.
