Russian assaults on Ukraine have resulted in the deaths of four individuals and left at least 27 others injured over the past day, according to regional authorities. In response, Ukraine's air force reported the successful downing of 34 out of 55 drones launched by Russia overnight. These drones targeted 11 regions across Ukraine, with an additional 18 failing to reach their intended destinations. Local authorities revealed that falling drone debris damaged energy infrastructure in the central region of Poltava, leaving over 300 users without power.
Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts continue as Italy's Defense Minister, Guido Crosetto, visits Kyiv. This visit coincides with a high-profile meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Starmer has arrived in Kyiv to sign a security and trade pact with Ukraine, which includes the announcement of an additional £40 million for Ukraine's postwar economic recovery. The UK has already committed £12.8 billion in military and civilian aid to Kyiv since the conflict began.
NATO has made it clear that Ukraine will not join the military alliance until after the war concludes. This stance comes amid ongoing discussions between Zelenskyy and Starmer regarding a plan proposed by French President Emmanuel Macron. The proposal suggests the deployment of troops from France and other Western countries in Ukraine to oversee a potential ceasefire agreement.
"It’s very important we ensure that Ukraine is in the strongest possible position," stated Keir Starmer during his visit.
The Ukrainian military reported on Thursday that its forces had captured more than two dozen troops in the western Russian region of Kursk. This development underscores the complexities of the conflict as both sides continue to engage in military operations.
Since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Italy has approved ten packages of military aid for Ukraine. This support is part of a broader international effort to bolster Ukraine's defenses against Russian aggression.
Starmer's visit is not only focused on security but also on economic collaboration. The UK leader emphasized the necessity of providing unwavering support to Ukraine.
"So we must give the necessary support, and that’s what I’m discussing with President Zelenskyy today. We must never let up on that and we’ve been leading the way," Starmer remarked.
In addition to this diplomatic activity, former US President Donald Trump has vowed to end the war within 24 hours of assuming office, although he has not specified how he intends to achieve this ambitious goal.
President Zelenskyy has called upon Western nations to utilize approximately US$250 billion of unallocated frozen Russian assets to purchase weapons for Kyiv. This request highlights the ongoing need for military resources as the conflict persists.
"There will have to be concessions made by the Russian Federation, but also by the Ukrainians," asserted Marco Rubio, reflecting on potential resolutions to the conflict.