Today’s key events
- Frontline fighting intensifies – Russian forces launched renewed assaults near Avdiivka and Kupiansk, with Ukraine reporting “heavy battles” but no major territorial changes.
- Drone strikes on Russian soil – Ukrainian drones hit an oil depot in Russia’s Rostov region, causing a large fire (confirmed by Russian officials). Moscow retaliated with missile strikes on Kharkiv.
- NATO aid announcement – The US approved a new $225 million military aid package, including HIMARS ammunition and air defence missiles. Germany pledged additional Patriot systems.
- Diplomatic tensions flare – Putin accused NATO of “direct participation” in the war after French military instructors were reported in Ukraine (denied by Kyiv).
Yesterday’s major updates
- Kharkiv evacuation – Over 1,500 civilians were evacuated from border villages amid intensified Russian shelling.
- Energy infrastructure hit – Russian strikes damaged power facilities in central Ukraine, causing rolling blackouts.
- POW exchange – 75 Ukrainian soldiers were returned in a prisoner swap, with Russia claiming 75 of its troops were recovered.
Analysis: The shifting battlefield
- Russian momentum slows – Despite localized attacks, analysts note Russia’s offensive lacks breakthrough capacity after 6 months of minimal gains.
- Ukraine’s asymmetric strategy – Increasing cross-border drone strikes aim to disrupt Russian logistics and morale ahead of expected F-16 deployments this summer.
- Global fallout – EU debates using frozen Russian assets for Ukraine reconstruction, while China faces US sanctions over alleged dual-use tech transfers to Russia.
*Next 24-hour watchlist:*
- Potential Ukrainian strikes on Crimea after Russia moved S-400 systems to the peninsula.
- US President’s expected statement on long-range missile permissions for Ukraine.
newshub finance
Recent Comments