Drone and missile strikes hit Belgorod Oblast near Ukraine border; population ~1.54 million; administrative center Belgorod.
Ukraine has been offering its battlefield-tested interceptor drones to the United States and Gulf partners to counter Iranian Shahed drones. Kyiv seeks high-end air-defense missiles in return, while Ukraine’s industry argues it can bolster global defenses without compromising its own needs.
Since early March 2026, Russia has imposed widespread mobile internet disruptions in Moscow, Saint Petersburg, and Leningrad region, restricting access to government-approved websites. These measures follow drone threat warnings and reflect ongoing wartime controls. Telecom operators report external orders to limit connectivity, with daily restrictions now affecting most regions nationwide.
Ukraine launched its largest drone attack on Russian territory in over four years, targeting 13 regions and Crimea, following Russia's extensive bombardment of Ukraine with nearly 1,000 drones and missiles. The attack highlights Ukraine's growing drone capabilities amid ongoing conflict.
Ukraine launched long-range drone attacks on Russian Baltic ports, halting over 40% of Russia's oil exports. Russia responded with large-scale missile and drone strikes on Ukraine, escalating the conflict. The US issued a waiver allowing Russian oil sales, drawing criticism from Ukraine and European allies. Tensions rise as both sides prepare for further escalation.
Since late April 2026, Russia and Ukraine have been exchanging sustained drone and missile attacks that have killed civilians, damaged ports, hospitals and housing, and struck energy infrastructure on both sides. Overnight into 5 May, strikes have hit Ukrainian energy facilities and cities and Ukrainian forces have struck major Russian oil and industrial sites.
Ukraine reports renewed Russian strikes and warns of further escalation; Zelenskiy calls for air-defence support and sanctions while Russia cites drone and missile activity. Multiple attacks have left casualties and raised international concern over potential retaliation and broader escalation.
Ukraine and Russia are escalating drone warfare, with cross-border incidents drawing NATO attention. Ukrainian strikes have targeted Russian border regions, while Russian drones have hit a Romanian apartment building and Baltic airspace has seen incursions. Western leaders warn of broader escalation as European air defences face strain.
Drones and missiles have struck targets across Russia and Ukraine, including oil depots and infrastructure. Russia reports casualties in Belgorod and Bryansk; Ukraine says it is retaliating and expanding long‑range strikes to disrupt Moscow’s war effort.