Eastern Ukrainian city with a wartime history
Crimea has imposed a night curfew banning motorcycles, mopeds and similar vehicles from 8:00 pm to 6:00 am, citing risk to defence systems and public safety amid continuing Ukrainian drone attacks. Authorities say the measure targets night travel to protect military facilities and stabilize fuel supplies.
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.
Kyiv remains under sustained Russian missile and drone strikes, with casualties and damage reported across multiple districts. Ukrainian officials say air defenses are engaged as civilians seek shelter and rescue operations continue.
Ukraine is pushing to accelerate domestic drone production and deepen ties with the United States as it faces ongoing missile strikes. New disclosures show Kyiv seeking a US-built drone factory and increased collaboration on Patriots; meanwhile, a Russian strike hit civilian areas near Kyiv and Ukrainian authorities warn against large crowds at weapons displays.
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.
Russian forces have intensified operations around Donetsk’s fortress belt, advancing on Sloviansk and nearby Kostiantynivka and Kramatorsk, while Ukraine reshapes its command to defend the region. Western analysts remain skeptical of Russia’s battlefield gains as Kyiv seeks to hold critical strongholds amid ongoing fighting.