Learn real English from real news! In this lesson, we’ll break down the vocabulary, phrasal verbs, and idioms used to describe Ukraine’s powerful strike against Russian forces. Perfect for English learners who want to understand world events in simple, clear English. �����

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1.
Significant
: Important or large enough to have an effect.

: The destruction of over 40 aircraft was a significant blow to Russia’s air capabilities.

2.
Development
: A recent event or change.

: The drone strikes marked a major development in Ukraine’s military strategy.

3.
Aggression
: Hostile or violent behavior.

: Ukraine’s operation was a response to ongoing Russian aggression.

4.
Launched
: Sent into the air or started.

: Ukraine launched 117 drones during Operation Spiderweb.

5.
Coordinated
: Organized to work together effectively.

: The attack was a coordinated effort by Ukraine’s security forces.

6.
Code name
: A secret name used for a mission.

: “Operation Spiderweb” was the code name for the drone strikes.

7.
Meticulous
: Showing great attention to detail.

: The meticulous planning took over 18 months to complete.

8.
Smuggling
: Secretly bringing something into a place.

: Drones were smuggled into Russia hidden in trucks.

9.
Disguising
: Hiding the true appearance.

: The drones were disguised as ordinary cargo to avoid detection.

10.
Activated remotely
: Started from a distance using technology.

: The drones were activated remotely once in position.

11.
Confirmed
: Officially stated to be true.

: Russia confirmed that several aircraft were damaged in the attack.

12.
Scale and scope
: The size and range of something.

: The scale and scope of the operation were unprecedented.

13.
Audacity
: Boldness or daring.

: The audacity of striking deep into Russia surprised many observers.

14.
Breathtaking
: Astonishing or awe-inspiring.

: The success of the operation was breathtaking in its execution.

15.
Breadth
: The wide extent or range.

: The breadth of the attack covered multiple airbases across Russia.

16.
Invisible
: Not visible or easily seen.

: The drones remained invisible to Russian radar systems.

17.
Dispersed
: Spread out over a wide area.

: The drones were dispersed across various locations to maximize impact.

18.
Contrary
: Opposite in nature or direction.

: Contrary to expectations, Ukraine managed to strike deep into Russian territory.

19.
Capitulate
: To surrender or give in.

: Despite the attack, Russia did not capitulate to Ukraine’s demands.

20.
Startling
: Very surprising or shocking.

: The operation’s success was startling to the Russian government.

21.
Repelled
: Driven back or resisted.

: Some drones were repelled by Russian air defenses.

22.
Detained
: Held in custody.

: Russia claimed to have detained individuals involved in the attack.

23.
Operatives
: People engaged in secret missions.

: Ukrainian operatives coordinated the drone strikes from within Russia.

24.
Licking their wounds
(idiom)
: Recovering after a defeat or setback.

: After the attack, Russia was left licking its wounds.

25.
Audacity

(repeated for emphasis)
: Boldness or daring.

: The operation’s audacity demonstrated Ukraine’s resolve.

26.
Tarmac
: The surface area where aircraft are parked.

: Many planes were destroyed while sitting on the tarmac.

27.
Propaganda
: Information used to influence public opinion.

: Both sides used propaganda to portray the attack in their favor.