Ukrainian forces have successfully launched a counterattack to reclaim the settlement of Kotlyne near Pokrovsk, a significant development amidst ongoing hostilities. The city of Pokrovsk has been a focal point for Russia's military efforts over the past year. However, according to the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), these efforts have yet to yield success, with Russian forces seemingly abandoning a direct assault in favor of a wide envelopment strategy.
The situation in Ukraine continues to escalate, marked by a series of drone attacks that have intensified conflict on both sides. In the Dnipropetrovsk region, Ukraine's largest private energy company, DTEK, reported damage to one of its facilities. Meanwhile, Russian drones inflicted casualties in the eastern city of Kostyantynivka, resulting in at least five fatalities and eight injuries.
In a significant development, the Romanian parliament has authorized its military and allies to intercept and shoot down any drones illegally breaching Romanian airspace, signaling heightened regional tensions. The drone warfare extended to Kyiv, where Russian drones claimed the lives of two individuals, including Ukrainian journalist Tetiana Kulyk.
Across the border, Russia has confirmed drone attacks in its southern Krasnodar region, particularly targeting the port city of Tuapse. Ukrainian military actions have also been reported in Crimea, where two military airfields under Russian control were targeted. However, detailed information about these attacks remains undisclosed.
Ukraine's interior ministry highlighted further drone attacks in Kharkiv city, wounding two individuals. Additionally, Russia's defense ministry reported drone strikes in the border regions of Bryansk and Kursk. Notably, Ukraine's military launched an attack on Russia's Tuapse oil refinery on the Black Sea coast, with over 40 explosions recorded at the site.
The conflict has witnessed shifts in territorial control with Russia recapturing Pogrebki and Orlovka settlements north of Sudzha. Despite these developments, Ukraine maintains control over territory inside Russia since August 2024 in Kursk Oblast.
International diplomatic efforts continue to play a crucial role in seeking resolutions. Giorgia Meloni emphasized the need for comprehensive security guarantees for Ukraine as part of any peace agreement involving NATO.
"Peace in Ukraine can only be achieved if Kyiv is given adequate security guarantees to make sure that what we have seen over the past three years does not happen again." – Giorgia Meloni
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy underscored the importance of sustained support from global allies as critical to achieving peace.
"For me and for all of us in the world, it’s important that US support is not stopped. Strength is needed on the path to peace." – Volodymyr Zelenskyy
Zelenskyy also announced plans to visit London for discussions with European leaders, including Keir Starmer.
"I plan to go to London: and immediately after this I and the Europeans will meet there with Keir Starmer" – Volodymyr Zelenskyy
Former US President Donald Trump expressed his intent for Europe to take a more active role in these efforts.
"We’re going to have Europe do that" – Donald Trump