Eastern Ukraine city, administrative centre of Donetsk region
The war in Ukraine is shifting. Ukrainian forces have tightened pressure on Russian positions in Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia, while Russia faces logistical strains and stalling advances. Kyiv is expanding long-range strikes, stressing Russian rear-area capabilities as Moscow maintains a systematic aerial campaign. Analysts warn that momentum is fragile and the next months will test both sides.
The Ukrainian Defence Forces are defending Kostyantynivka, with Kyiv disputing Moscow’s claim of occupation. Ukraine says the city remains under its control along defensive lines, while Russia asserts troops occupy all parts of the town. The back-and-forth follows strikes on Russian territory and Ukrainian attacks on infrastructure, underscoring a volatile Donbas frontline as both sides seek leverage in an ongoing war.
Ukraine has intensified long-range strikes on Russia’s energy infrastructure, with drones hitting St. Petersburg’s oil terminal and nearby port facilities. Officials report no casualties, while Kyiv says the action targets revenue for Moscow’s war. Putin labels energy strikes as not critical.
Ukraine has intensified drone strikes against Russian energy infrastructure and tanker ships in the Sea of Azov and Black Sea, aiming to disrupt Moscow’s fuel supply to Crimea. The operation, named Molochka, has hit dozens of vessels and electricity infrastructure, triggering fuel shortages and a broader energy crisis in Russia.
Zelenskyy has warned that air-defence shortages could worsen as Russia launches a wave of ballistic missiles and drones. Ukraine is relying on allies for Patriot interceptors, with talks about domestic production and European partnerships intensifying. At least 17 people have been killed across Kyiv and surrounding areas, while drones have been largely shot down.
Distant drone strikes hit multiple Wildberries warehouses across Russia, including Yekaterinburg in the Urals. Evacuations are under way with officials reporting some drone interceptions. Ukraine continues long-range strikes to disrupt Russian logistics and economy, while Russia asserts air defenses have intercepted hundreds of drones.
Ukrainian and allied officials report that Russia is expanding North Korean military reinforcement while warning of a broader regional threat. A WHO warehouse in Dnipro was destroyed, triggering renewed calls to protect health facilities. Ukrainian drone strikes have intensified, drawing regional casualties and infrastructure damage.
Ukraine has suspended elections under martial law as war with Russia continues. A former defence minister has called for wartime elections, prompting a presidential debate. Zelenskyy says elections during war are a risk that could split the country, while allies discuss conditions to conduct votes safely.