**Russia Uses Ukrainian-Bought Bombers to Attack Ukraine**
Russian forces have been using six Tu-160-type bombers that were given to Russia by Ukraine in 1999 as payment for a gas debt. This was found out by an investigation from Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty’s Schemes.
The investigation looked at old serial numbers and aviation registries to identify the planes. It also found out which pilots were flying them and launching missile strikes against Ukraine. Russia regularly uses its strategic aviation to attack cities and infrastructure across Ukraine.
**Ukraine Transferred Bombers in 1999**
In 1999, Ukraine handed over eight Tu-160 supersonic heavy bombers and three Tu-95MS heavy bombers to Russia as part of a larger debt payment for Russian gas. The planes were also given with 575 Kh-55 cruise missiles. In return, Russia wrote off $275 million in gas debt.
**Missiles Used Against Ukraine**
The transferred Kh-55 missiles were also used against Ukraine, according to an earlier investigation by Radio Free. This means that Russia has been using Ukrainian-bought bombs and missiles to attack its own country.
**Tu-160 Bombers Are Sparsely Used**
The Tu-160 strategic bombers are among the biggest warplanes ever operated. However, they are only sparsely used due to maintenance problems. They were designed in the Soviet Union and can carry conventional and nuclear weaponry.
Read More @ kyivindependent.com