What would a nuclear-equipped plane have been doing so close to Ukrainian airspace?
Also, this type of plane is routinely used in conventional attacks vs Ukraine. Its disingenuous to blame Ukraine for shooting at these things if Russia is happy to mix and match their roles.
The launch line for the Tu-22 that was shot down was over the Black Sea off Crimea.
In fact, Russia sent two Tu-22’s last night to the Crimea launch line for the attack.
After Ukraine shot down the first bomber, the second bomber aborted its mission and returned to base.