Anadolu Agency captures footage of world’s biggest cargo aircraft bombed by Russia

KYIV, Ukraine

Footage of the wreckage of the world’s largest cargo aircraft, the Antonov AN-225, which was destroyed by Russian forces in Ukraine, was captured by Anadolu Agency.

Also known as Mriya (“Dream” in Ukrainian), the plane, which was used to ship humanitarian aid around the world, was extensively damaged due to Russian bombardments during the first days of the Russia-Ukraine war. It is now located at the Antonov aircraft facility in the city of Hostomel, where heavy clashes took place until the last two days.

Following the clashes, the wreckage of many burnt tanks and other armored vehicles remains under the wings of the AN-225.

Cleaning work continues at the facility, where there are many unexploded grenades and mines.

An official from Ukraine’s Interior Ministry who wanted to remain anonymous told Anadolu Agency that intensive clashes had taken place in the region.

The official said Russia intended to seize the facility and bring its own planes there and launch a more intense airstrike on the capital, Kyiv.

The Ukrainian army regained control of the Antonov facility two days ago.

The Russian war against Ukraine, which started on Feb. 24, has been met with international outrage, with the European Union, US and the UK among others implementing tough financial sanctions on Moscow.

At least 1,417 civilians have been killed in Ukraine and 2,038 injured, according to UN estimates, with the true figure feared to be far higher.

More than 4.1 million Ukrainians have also fled to other countries, with millions more internally displaced, according to the UN refugee agency.