A Ukrainian port city: industrial hub, force in Donetsk Oblast, Sea of Azov outlet
Ukraine has seen mass protests after President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has removed Mykhailo Fedorov as defence minister and named SBU chief Yevhen Khmara as acting minister. Fedorov had clashed with commander-in-chief Oleksandr Syrskyi over modernisation and digital reforms. Demonstrations have continued in Kyiv and other cities and political tensions are rising during ongoing Russian strikes.
Ukrainian club were in fourth tier in 2021 but, despite war with Russia, will contest European qualifiers for first time
The UN rights mission has documented a sharp rise in civilian deaths and injuries in Ukraine in the first half of 2026, with 1,396 civilians killed and 7,978 injured—an increase of 37 percent from the prior year. Russia and Ukraine continue to exchange strikes, with long-range attacks affecting urban centers and critical infrastructure. Civilian casualties are rising on both sides amid stalled peace talks.
Zelensky has appointed Mykhailo Drapatyi, 43, as commander-in-chief of Ukraine's armed forces, replacing Oleksandr Syrskyi amid protests and calls for reform. Supporters describe Drapatyi as a reform-minded leader with frontline experience who can modernise the military and empower field commanders. Critics note his track record in drone warfare and accountability.
Russia's Supreme Court has revoked the registration of Yabloko's federal list for September's State Duma elections after upholding a suit by the nationalist Rodina party that accused it of receiving foreign funding, copyright violations and promoting extremism. Supporters gathered outside the court and dozens were detained; party leaders have vowed legal appeals.
The latest attacks across Ukraine and at border crossings have killed and wounded civilians, with strikes on Kyiv and other cities continuing as international efforts to broker peace face renewed strain. Reports cite casualties, damaged infrastructure, and ongoing drone activity.