UNLIKE 1914, Europe is not sleepwalking into war. It is tempting fate by preparing for one with its eyes wide open and sharply focused on the hostilities between Russia and Ukraine — where the latter has lately struck a powerful blow with audacious drone strikes aimed at its foe’s offensive airborne capability.

Volodymyr Zelensky has claimed that over 40 strategic bombers were damaged or destroyed across at least four Russian air bases in Operation Spider Web, which had been planned for more than 18 months. Apparently, lorry drivers, who thought they were conveying wooden cabins, carried the concealed drones close to their targets. Russia has acknowledged the ‘terrorist’ attack without specifying its possibly substantial losses (much like India after last month’s uncalled-for clash with Pakistan).

It’s hardly likely, however, that Kyiv’s smart stratagem will propel the belligerents towards any peaceful settlement. The Ukrainian strikes followed what was purportedly the biggest Russian drone and missile attack against its involuntary adversary — which nonetheless resulted in fewer casualties than the daily dose of destruction perpetrated by Israel in Gaza.

Overall, the European war has cost more lives than the even more........

© Dawn