US President Donald Trump’s misreading of Russia has cost Ukraine dearly. Russian forces exploited the first half-year of the new US presidency to advance on the front lines and kill civilians, taking advantage of a flawed understanding of Moscow’s mindset.

Sanctions will not alter the Kremlin’s goal

Trump has expressed willingness to impose sanctions on Russia, yet economic pressure alone will not deter Putin from his primary objective: defeating Ukraine.

The American leader’s challenge is immense: inflict enough damage on Moscow to change its behavior while keeping diplomatic channels open.

In practice, this is impossible, as Putin does not seek peace, and confusion in Trump’s thinking only exacerbates the problem.

Putin exploits time and allies

The past eight months of American governance have been wasted from the perspective of strategic defense for Ukraine and Europe, allowing Moscow to strengthen its position.

After attacks on the offices of the EU, the British Council, and Ukraine’s Cabinet of Ministers, it became clear that Putin acts with impunity.

A meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping reinforced his sense of support from international allies, and Moscow continues to receive money, weapons, hydrocarbons, and even special forces from North Korea.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian officials fear new attacks on Pokrovsk in Donetsk Oblast and advances north toward Kupiansk in Kharkiv Oblast. The Kremlin’s time gain gives Putin a strategic advantage that Washington has yet to offset. Clearly, this approach requires urgent change.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is not rushing to end the war in Ukraine, not only because of imperialist plans to restore the Soviet Union 2.0. Reuters reports, citing three sources close to the Kremlin, that the Russian leader is carefully controlling the demobilization process to avoid destabilizing society and the political system.

Afghan lesson: fear of social chaos

The Kremlin seeks to avoid repeating the social upheavals that followed the Soviet war in Afghanistan. At that time, returning veterans fueled a wave of organized crime that overshadowed the 1990s.

A similar dynamic could recur: many demobilized soldiers will not receive the generous salaries they had on the front lines, sparking discontent and protests. For example, a new recruit from Moscow earns at least $65,000 for the first year of service in Ukraine, including bonuses.

Returning to civilian life without such income could become a source of social tension.

PTSD and risk of domestic violence

Another Kremlin concern is the psychological state of soldiers. A high number of veterans with PTSD are returning home, posing dangers to their families.

Among the demobilized are individuals who have already served prison terms, including thieves, murderers, and rapists. Since 2022, Russia has recruited from 120,000 to 180,000 convicts for military service in Ukraine. 

Last year, about 500 civilians fell victim to the veterans, with at least 242 killed and 227 seriously injured, according to organizations analyzing Russian court records and media reports.

Kremlin control and political risks

Mass return of veterans could undermine Russia’s tightly controlled political system. The Kremlin already felt the effects of chaos in June 2023, when Yevgeny Prigozhin, the Wagner PMC’s head, led a revolt against the military high command.

The Putin’s government is trying to mitigate the impact of returning veterans through policies, programs, and participation in regional and federal elections.

The return of demobilized soldiers, many of whom are hardened criminals or severely wounded, could replicate the Afghan scenario and threaten the country’s stability, especially considering that nearly 700,000 Russian troops remain on the front lines. 

Russia’s “shadow fleet” grows again, helping the Kremlin bypass sanctions. The number of Moscow’s oil tankers continues to expand, ensuring deliveries of Russian oil despite Western sanctions, Reuters reports. 

The Russian “shadow fleet” consists of grey-market tankers that evade international sanctions. These tankers often sail with transponders turned off, without proper insurance, and conceal their identities. They channel Russian oil exports to China, India, and Global South countries. 

About 70% of the shadow fleet that transports Russian oil passes through the Baltic Sea.

Shadow fleet keeps Russia’s oil exports afloat

Saad Rahim, chief economist at major trading house Trafigura, says that these tankers have become a key instrument in the Kremlin’s hands. These vessels allow Moscow to maintain revenues from crude oil sales despite Western efforts to restrict exports.

“As there are more sanctions and restrictions, the size of the (shadow fleet) has grown even larger,” Rahim emphasized.

New vessels replace sanctioned ones

According to the expert, in 2025 the growth of the “shadow fleet” has slowed somewhat, but it continues to expand. Often, new tankers replace those that end up on the “blacklist.” This enables Russia to keep its export channels open and avoid significant losses from sanctions.

The US cuts production, price steady at $60

Rahim also stressed that US tariffs have so far had limited impact on the global economy and fuel demand. American oil companies base their budgets on a $60 per barrel price, which is considered the break-even level. At the same time, the number of oil rigs in the country is declining, while production has stabilized at the current level.

Moscow relies on its allies, when it comes to sustaining its drone program. Russia continues to ramp up production of long-range drones, partly due to support from China, the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) reports. 

“Russia is increasingly relying on the PRC for its drone components and would not be able to sustain the pace or mass of its Shahed-type drone production without these components,” experts note.

China as a key supplier

The experts also drew attention to a recent investigation by the Ukrainian organization Frontelligence Insight, which revealed that the Russian Alabuga facility alone depends on China for at least 41 components in producing long-range strike drones.

These include engines, electronic and mechanical parts, batteries, antennas, radios, carbon fuel units, carburetors, and telecommunication components.

Assembly, not production

Frontelligence Insight assesses that many drones Russia claims to produce domestically are in fact only assembled there, given the large share of Chinese-made parts used in their construction.

Experts state that Russia has significantly expanded domestic Shahed-type drone production, including the “Geran,” “Harpia,” and “Herbera” variants.

Production is centered in the Republic of Tatarstan, with a new production line recently launched at the Izhevsk Electromechanical Plant, where “Harpia” drones (Shahed analogues with PRC components) are also assembled.

Russia has made major investments in expanding the Alabuga drone plant, supporting its infrastructure, and recruiting women, children, and foreign workers for its operations.

Additionally, Russia has opened a special logistics hub at this plant to receive and process freight trains directly from China, likely aimed at streamlining the delivery of Chinese components for drone production in the special economic zone.

Petro Andriushchenko, head of the Center for Occupation Studies, reveals why the Kremlin needs Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant. He says Russia plans to use it to to supply electricity to a military facility at Azovstal in Mariupol. The exact purpose of this facility remains unknown.

Andriushchenko notes that the IAEA, which continuously monitors the situation at the Zaporizhzhia NPP, the largest nuclear plant in Europe, could have detected such plans.

“What we’ve been warning about for over a year is now becoming reality, under the conspicuous silence of the IAEA and Energoatom,” he says.

Documents show preparations underway

Andriushchenko publishes photocopies of several pages from a site planning project developed by the Donbas National Academy of Construction and Architecture.

The documents indicate reconstruction of the 110 kV Zarya-Illich power line with a branch to Azovstal substation No. 7, and construction of the 110 kV Zarya-Azovstal line No. 8. The project contractor is LLC “Kashpin.”

The plan involves restoring 26.68 km of power lines and replacing 18 supports to ensure electricity for new military facilities.

Zaporizhzhia NPP as a strategic Kremlin resource

“A military facility will be built at Azovstal, powered by Zaporizhzhia NPP? Judging by the technical documentation—yes,” Andriushchenko explains.

While Mariupol continues to survive without water, Russian forces are quietly connecting the destroyed Azovstal plant to the power grid, implementing the project step by step.

Meanwhile, the EU and its member states say they are “deeply concerned” about the risks to nuclear safety caused by Russia’s illegal military aggression, its seizure of the Zaporizhzhia NPP, and the intense military activity near Ukrainian nuclear facilities. Ukraine claims that the threat will remain as long as the facility stays under Russian occupation. 

Riga has tightened rules for Russian citizens inside Latvia. Under amendments to the migration law, hundreds must leave the country if they cannot pass a language test, Deutsche Welle reports. 

To legally reside in Latvia, Russian citizens must also apply for permanent residence status and undergo a security check.

Authorities announce specific deadlines

Head of the Citizenship and Migration Affairs Office, Maija Roze, has stated that 841 Russian citizens must leave Latvia by 13 October. The legislative changes were introduced in 2022 in response to Russia’s war against Ukraine.

Impact on the Russian-speaking community

The new rules affect about 25,000 people, of whom roughly 16,000 have already received permanent residence permits, and 1,000 have temporary permits. Individuals without permits are required to leave the country. Authorities report that 2,600 people left voluntarily, and in ten cases, forced deportation was applied.

Earlier, Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service Head Sergey Naryshkin warned that Poland and the Baltic states would be the first to suffer in the event of a war between Moscow and the Alliance. 

He claimed that Poland and the Baltic countries are displaying particular aggressiveness toward Russia. As an example, he cited Warsaw’s plan to deploy around anti-tank mines along its borders with Belarus and Russia’s Kaliningrad region. 

Russia flaunts resilience in the face of new US and EU sanctions. The Kremlin’s spokesperson, Dmitry Peskov, has openly declared that it is impossible to force Moscow to change its course on Ukraine, Reuters reports. 

Kremlin dismisses Western sanctions

“No sanctions will be able to force the Russian Federation to change its consistent position, which our president has repeatedly voiced,” says Peskov.

The Kremlin’s spokesperson’s words aren’t far from the truth. Despite thousands of sanctions imposed after the annexation of Crimea in 2014 and the full-scale invasion in 2022, the Russian economy has stayed afloat.

Russia’s economy even grew by 4.1% in 2023 and 4.3% in 2024. But this year, growth has slowed sharply due to high interest rates and the costs of war. 

Ukraine calls for real security

Meanwhile, Ukrainian presidential sanctions adviser Vladyslav Vlasiuk has calculated that Russia has lost at least $150 billion due to sanctions, yet retains its military potential. The country remains the most sanctioned state in the world. 

At the same time, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stressed that real security guarantees, which can protect Ukraine from Russia, can only come from a strong Ukrainian army backed by support from its Western allies. 

However, as Washington has delayed a new package of military aid to Kyiv, the fighting between Russia and Ukraine is dragging on into a war of attrition for both sides.

Russia and Belarus are training for an attack on Poland, and this is more than just military exercises — it’s drills for striking a neighboring country. Prime Minister Donald Tusk warns that Polish forces are ready to respond to any provocations. Diplomacy will continue, but in the event of a threat, serious measures will be taken.

According to Defence24, part of the exercises will also take place near Ukraine’s border, similar to what happened shortly before the 2022 invasion.

Unconventional tactics in focus

This year, exercises will include:

• simulated counter-air operations,
• advances supported by mechanized forces,
• active use of electronic warfare, with emphasis on communications and transport,
• mass involvement of reservists, and mobilization of local authorities.

Russia and Belarus could stage provocations along Ukraine’s border, aiming to “force Kyiv to disperse its forces.”

Poland prepares to deter aggression

Tusk stressed that preparations are underway to counter any aggression.

“We are preparing appropriate responses together with our allies to the aggressive maneuvers that Russia and Belarus are conducting near our borders. They are already aggressive; they simulate an attack, not defense. Let’s not deceive ourselves,” Tusk says.

Poland keeps a close watch

Tusk emphasizes that Poland is working with European partners to convince the US of the real threat. Recently, Polish President Karol Nawrocki has reached an agreement with US President Donald Trump: US support is available, but “nothing comes for free.”

Provocations will not go unanswered

Polish authorities are monitoring airspace violations and other provocations by Belarus and Russia.

“For Poland, there are dangers, as we border Belarus. We will consult and respond to provocations. Those who carry them out will face serious consequences, both diplomatic and kinetic,” Tusk adds.

While the “kinetic consequences” remain undisclosed, the Polish prime minister assures that Poland has “special measures” in place to protect the country.

Ukraine’s Foreign Intelligence Service has reported that Russia has about 13.2 billion tons of economically viable, proven oil reserves, enough for roughly 25 years of production.

At the same time, 96% of the subsoil fund has already been allocated, indicating near-full utilization of available fields.

Investors losing interest

According to the results of 2024 auctions, one-time payments for hydrocarbon extraction rights amounted to only $50 million, with half the revenue from placer gold mining, a sector less significant for the budget.

This signals a sharp decline in investor interest in Russia’s oil and gas industry.

Technology and resources at the limit

Ukraine’s intelligence notes that over the next 10–15 years, the potential for further exploration of existing fields in Russia will be exhausted. Limited funding and a lack of technology to develop hard-to-reach, geologically complex, and remote regions undermine Russia’s energy and economic security, casting doubt on the long-term stability of its oil and gas sector.

Earlier, Euromaidan Press reported that Ukraine disabled 17% of Russia’s oil refining capacity through a wave of recent drone strikes targeting key infrastructure.

The attacks, carried out over the past month, have disrupted fuel processing, sparked gasoline shortages, and hit the core of Moscow’s war economy as Washington seeks to broker a peace deal.

New Delhi is taking a step in defiance of American demands. Bloomberg reports that India has officially confirmed that it will continue buying Russian oil despite the 50% US tariffs on Indian goods.

In doing so, New Delhi ignored US President Donald Trump’s demand to stop importing Russian oil, prompting renewed public criticism from him. 

“Looks like we’ve lost India and Russia to deepest, darkest, China. May they have a long and prosperous future together!” Trump wrote in a social media post, adding a photo of the three leaders together at Xi Jinping’s summit in China.

Volumes of Russian oil declining

Meanwhile, Andrii Kovalenko, head of Ukraine’s Center for Countering Disinformation, has reported that Russian oil shipments to India fell from 1.8 million barrels per day in 2024 to 1.1 million in September 2025.

“Delhi is demanding additional discounts and payments in non-convertible rupees. US tariffs on Indian goods for Russian oil have already reached 50%,” he says. 

He adds that the US and EU sanctions have limited Moscow’s oil trade, and now India and China are dictating the terms.

China increases purchases on its terms

At the same time, Kovalenko reveals that China has increased its purchases of Russian oil, from 50,000 barrels in August to 420,000 barrels in September, but also only under conditions of significant discounts, which are $5–6 below Brent. 

Russian President Vladimir Putin has called Ukraine’s goal of joining the European Union its “legitimate choice” and commented on the events of 2013–2014 in this context, UNIAN reports. 

Putin admits: Ukraine’s accession to the EU is a “legitimate choice”

Putin said it is Ukraine’s lawful right to decide how to build its international relations, how to safeguard its economic interests, and with whom to form alliances.

“The problem for us at that time, when Yanukovych was president, was that Ukraine’s integration into the European system of economic relations created certain economic difficulties for us.

Ukraine was part of a free trade zone, our customs borders were open, and for us, this had certain consequences,” said Putin.

The consent of all current EU members is required for Ukraine to join the European Union. However, Hungary and Slovakia, Russia’s allies in Europe, oppose Ukraine’s accession. Moreover, it remains unclear how realistic Ukraine’s EU entry is during wartime.

Hungary remains the main obstacle

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has already responded to Putin’s remarks. He stated that in a situation where even the Russian leader does not oppose Ukraine’s EU membership, the position of “Russia’s friends,” particularly Hungary, on this issue looks strange, according to UkrInform. 

“Finally, we hear a signal from Russia that they already accept Ukraine’s membership in the European Union. It’s a pity that they recognize reality with such a delay.

Since 2013, Russia has been moving toward this simple idea, but now some of Russia’s other great friends in Europe also need to hear it,” Zelenskyy said.

He added that if even Putin does not object, the positions of some countries, especially Hungary, regarding negotiation clusters look really strange.

Ukraine has done its homework for EU accession 

Zelenskyy also said he is ready to meet with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán on this matter.

Hungary remains the only EU member state blocking the opening of the first cluster in negotiations on Ukraine’s accession to the European Union, while the other 26 leaders at the 26 June summit supported the move. Opening these clusters is intended to align Ukraine with European standards.

Ukraine and Moldova have already fulfilled all the requirements to start accession negotiations under the clusters “Fundamentals,” “Internal Market,” and “External Relations.”

This is the first block, “Basics of EU Membership,” the most important cluster concerning Ukraine’s participation in the EU internal market, and the block dealing with foreign and security policy.

Earlier, Putin said that if Western forces appeared on Ukrainian territory, they would have become legitimate targets for Russia. His statement came the day after a Russian ballistic missile deliberately struck an unarmed Danish demining mission, killing two people and wounding eight in Chernihiv Oblast.

Meanwhile, the “Coalition of the Willing” countries have reportedly agreed that ten of the 21 states, which are ready to work on security guarantees for Ukraine, are willing to send their soldiers to Ukrainian territory after the fighting ends.

The US is ready to create a buffer zone in Ukraine to contain Russia, but it is unclear whether Putin will stop the war. If a peace agreement is reached, the US plans to take a leading role in monitoring a large demilitarized buffer zone on Ukrainian territory, NBC News reports. 

It would separate the Russian and Ukrainian areas after the fighting ends. The US drones, satellites, and other intelligence tools would help ensure security compliance, while American troops would not be deployed within the zone.

International oversight and security

Troops from one or more non-NATO countries, such as Saudi Arabia or Bangladesh, could secure the buffer zone.

Meanwhile, Turkiye would be responsible for the safe movement of goods and services in the Black Sea, controlling the Bosporus and Dardanelles straits. Previously, Turkiye attempted to ensure the safety of the maritime corridor for exporting Ukrainian grain. However, Russia continued its strikes on Ukraine’s Odesa port anyway. 

Security guarantees and economic protection

Some security guarantees from allies are planned to be based on the plan, which avoids the use of NATO forces and Article V to avoid crossing Russia’s “red line.”

Additionally, bilateral agreements between Ukraine and its allies would provide security and economic support. The US is discussing with Ukraine a deal worth around $100 billion, which would include weapons supplies and the exchange of intellectual property rights for Ukrainian developments as part of security guarantees. 

Still, it is not clear how Kyiv will get back Ukrainian children stolen by Russia and how the issue of war reparations will be solved. 

If Western forces appear on Ukrainian territory, they would become legitimate targets for Russia, declared Russian dictator Vladimir Putin, according to UNIAN.

Putin threatens the West

“If any troops appear in Ukraine, especially now during ongoing hostilities, we proceed from the assumption that they will be legitimate targets for strikes,” said the Russian president.

This means the potential mission should be significantly protected from Russian strikes. 

Coalition of the willing and European guarantees

On 4 September, a meeting of the “coalition of the willing” took place in Paris. It was agreed that out of 21 countries willing to work on security guarantees for Ukraine, ten would agree to send their soldiers to Ukrainian territory after the fighting ends.

Countries prepared to take this step include the United Kingdom, France, the Nordic countries, the Baltic states, the Netherlands, and Australia. Preliminary estimates suggest that the European mission in Ukraine could number 25–30 thousand troops. These security guarantees are meant to take effect once peace is established in Ukraine, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty reports. 

Meanwhile, Donald Trump, the leader of the US, traditionally considered the major protector of the Western world, has stated that he does not plan to send troops to Ukraine, has not imposed the promised sanctions on Moscow, and is not providing Ukraine with new aid packages. As a result, the situation in Ukraine is at a deadlock.

A deadlock for Ukraine

According to Putin, security guarantees should apply not only to Ukraine but also to Russia.

At the same time, the dictator claimed that Russia “will fully comply with peace agreements regarding Ukraine once they are reached.”

According to Putin, no one has yet discussed such agreements with Russia “at a serious level.”

Putin also stated that he is allegedly willing to engage with Ukraine, but sees “little point” in such talks, claiming it is impossible to reach an agreement.

Earlier, he suggested meeting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Moscow, despite seven countries offering their cities for such a meeting and the risks it would pose for Zelenskyy.

Zelensky urges the West to implement guarantees without waiting for peace

Amid discussions over security guarantees, the question arises: What is preventing the West from implementing security guarantees now?

According to Rai, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that security guarantees for Ukraine must take effect immediately without waiting for a cessation of hostilities.

“It is important that the security guarantees promised by the countries forming the ‘coalition of the determined’ begin to operate immediately, without waiting for the end of the fighting,” the Ukrainian president said.

Zelenskyy added that this refers not only to military support for Ukraine but also to economic guarantees. According to him, 26 countries have expressed readiness to support Ukraine’s security, and this is “an important step forward.”

Ukraine has already redefined modern warfare with Operation Spiderweb. In the course of the mission, Kyiv used drone swarms, surprisingly unleashed from trucks in Russia, to destroy its aircraft. Now, it has gone even further in its technological developments. 

In Donetsk Oblast, at an old Soviet warehouse, Ukrainian engineers are assembling ground-based unmanned systems. They deliver ammunition, food, and medical supplies, evacuate the wounded, and carry out assault operations, Forbes reports. 

Drones resilient to Russian jammers

Teams are upgrading standard drones with digital communication channels, such as Starlink and LTE, which allow them to bypass Russian electronic warfare systems.

“The conditions on the ground dictate their own rules, and we have to convert all drones to digital control,” explains engineer Oleksandr.

Also, fully robotic assaults have already been recorded on the Ukrainian front lines. The battle took place near the village of Lyptsi, north of Kharkiv, in 2024. During the clash, Russian positions were destroyed solely by unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) and FPV drones.

A robot under fire instead of a soldier

Ground drones act as communication relays and even as platforms for electronic warfare.

“The drone drives up to a trench or dugout, releases the load, and leaves,” he adds.

Ukraine — a global leader in military robotics

According to Army Technology, up to 80% of Russian losses on the battlefield are now caused by drones. Russia is also developing its own systems, but Ukraine is ahead due to volunteer initiatives and decentralized solutions.

“Ukrainian engineers are creating the future of warfare, not just for Ukraine, but for the world,” emphasizes Liuba Shypovych, CEO of Dignitas Ukraine.

For decades, China held a monopoly on strategic metals. But now a new player, Georgia, has found 240 million tons of manganese ore on its territory, already being called “the new lithium,” The Diary 24 reports. 

A colossal discovery in Chiatura

In the Chiatura region, reserves of manganese ore amounting to 240 million tons have been confirmed. Manganese is increasingly seen as an alternative to lithium for electric vehicle batteries. It allows the creation of cheaper and more reliable cathodes, which could radically change the balance of the global market. 

Georgia between China and the West

At the same time, the pro-Russian Georgian Dream party holds power in Georgia. As is known, China is Russia’s main economic partner, which sponsors its war against Ukraine. In addition, about 20% of Georgia’s territory is currently controlled by Russia, something Moscow can use as leverage for blackmail.

The current government has effectively stalled Georgia’s accession to the European Union. This reduces the country’s chances of democratization and, therefore, hinders alliances with Western nations.

A chance for the West and a challenge for China

The emergence of a competitor like Georgia has become an unexpected challenge for China, which has dominated strategic resources for decades. The US and other Western countries are already considering cooperation with Tbilisi to reduce dependence on Beijing.

Ukraine may have replenished its fleet of MiG-29 fighters with aircraft from Azerbaijan, The War Zone reports. A photo appeared on social media showing a single-seat Ukrainian Air Force MiG-29 with a camouflage pattern characteristic of Azerbaijani jets.

“The date and location of the photo are unknown, but the jet appears to be on a combat mission, with a full armament…While it remains possible that the photo has been manipulated, there is presently nothing to indicate that it’s not genuine,” the report says. 

Azerbaijani aircraft in Ukraine

Back in the summer of 2022, another photo appeared on Twitter showing three Azerbaijani MiG-29s undergoing repairs in Lviv. After the start of the all-out war, they remained in Ukraine and likely entered service with the Air Force.

“It seems the aircraft (or at least one of them) survived the March 2022 Russian attack on the Lviv State Aviation Repair Plant, which we reported on at the time,” the report says.

The plant was a key facility for overhauling MiG-29s not only for Ukraine but also for foreign clients, including Azerbaijan.

Traces of Baku’s support

There are also suggestions that Azerbaijan may have provided Ukraine with other “unofficial” assistance — precision bombs, mortars, and fuel. Azerbaijan’s MiG-29 fleet itself originally came from Ukraine: in 2007, the country acquired about 15 aircraft after major overhaul and modernization.

“Between 2015 and 2017, Azerbaijani MiG-29s took part in joint exercises with the Turkish Air Force, representing one of its closest military allies, and, starting in 2017, Fulcrum overhauls were conducted in Lviv,” the journalists recall. 

The coincidence of the evidence emerging now, alongside rising tensions between Azerbaijan and Russia, only adds intrigue. 

Analysts at Defense Express have spotted a MiG-29 fighter jet armed with a domestic analogue of the Russian UMPK kit, a guided bomb, or a so-called KAB. This indicates the start of wider adaptation of this weapon on a more mass-produced aircraft.

The UMPK kit turns a standard unguided bomb into a precision-guided munition with an extended range.

“At least 100 per day are needed” 

“The enemy drops 120–150 aerial bombs daily. We, at best, have up to 10 per day. And we need to reach at least 100 per day. Once we finally get enough aerial bombs, the situation at the front can change drastically,” revealed military expert Pavlo Narozhny on Radio NV. 

He emphasized that the Ukrainian development does not compete with the French high-precision HAMMERs, which are much more advanced and have a range of over 200 km. Instead, the Ukrainian KABs can be compared to American JDAMs or GBUs, which glide under the influence of gravity.

Cheap, mass-produced, and with great potential

According to Narozhny, the cost of one Ukrainian KAB could be $25,000. An American JDAM costs around $20,000–22,000.

“We have huge stockpiles of these aerial bombs – high-explosive, cluster, various types. We can use them in massive quantities,” the expert explained.

He also noted that installing a jet engine is a completely realistic next step. This would make the Ukrainian munition technologically closer to Western models and provide additional range.

Chinese companies directly supplied at least €55 million worth of parts and materials to sanctioned Russian firms in 2023–2024. During this period, Moscow was actively building a large-scale logistics infrastructure for its drone program, The Telegraph reports.

Almost a quarter of the supplies, worth €12.5 million, went to companies involved in producing Iranian Shahed kamikaze drones in a Russian special economic zone in the city of Alabuga.

Among the goods exported from China were: aircraft engines, microchips, metal alloys, fiberglass, optics, and carbon fibers – all critical components for drone production.

Chinese neutrality only in words

Beijing publicly claims neutrality in the war, but the supply of drone parts reveals deep military cooperation with Moscow. On the battlefield, this is confirmed by the fact that Ukrainian troops regularly find Chinese components in downed Russian equipment.

“One has a very important interest in the survival of the other; this is not going to change. It’s a simple, geographic fact,” said Andrea Ghiselli, an expert on China’s foreign policy.

At the same time, unlike North Korea, China avoids direct participation in the war. Instead, it allows its companies to export dual-use goods. This has led to record trade volumes between the two countries – €246 billion in 2024.

Russia increases drone production

In just three months of 2023, the Chinese company Ningbo Peak Cloud Import and Export supplied Russia with aircraft engines worth €3.5 million for the Ural Civil Aviation Plant, which is under sanctions.

In total, The Telegraph identified 97 Chinese suppliers. At least five Russian firms, including the Ural Civil Aviation Plant, PT Electronic, and Radioline, directly use Chinese components in drone production.

As a result, in just the first half of 2024, Russia produced more than 2,000 “Harpy” drones, almost matching the total output of the entire previous year.

The company Mile Hao Xiang Technology also supplied engines for the “Gerbera” drone worth more than €1.5 million in 2022–2023, including through intermediaries. The main importers were Russian companies Sequoia JSC and Unikom LLC.

The real volume of supplies may be much higher than official statistics show.

The world has changed forever. Maria Berlinska, a Ukrainian military volunteer, says that the joint parade in China, attended by Russian President Vladimir Putin, marks a “starting point for a new world order.”

Soldiers, sanctions, and the Western response

“If before they did this anyway but at least they were afraid to say it so openly, the main lesson now is—they are no longer afraid,” she says.

The axis of authoritarian dictators now tells the world, especially the West: the previous order is over, “now we are in charge.”

These leaders show that their soldiers can die “by the hundreds of thousands,” still swearing oaths to their rulers.

“Meanwhile, Western voters will only scream and protest when the first coffins arrive,” adds Berlinska.

Sanctions against world leaders also cannot stop these countries, because they have enough combined domestic economic power.

“So prepare your ‘pampered democratic asses to be removed from the seat’ of global governance. ‘We are already here, and we are coming for you,’ they are showing,” she emphasizes.

The world is now divided into “before and after,” Berlinska says.

Ukraine on the frontier of a new war

“The only pain I feel is that my country, my people, are on the frontier of the sleepy-bureaucratic Western civilization. And the battles in this war are only beginning,” the Ukrainian volunteer adds.

Earlier, the head of Ukrainian intelligence, Kyrylo Budanov, also spoke about the new world order. He said that it was “not perfect, not as powerful as many believed, but it existed until 2014.” According to him, it changed after Russia forcibly altered Ukraine’s borders, annexing Crimea.

“All the problems started from there. When everyone silently watched the violation of the world order and did nothing,” he said.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese leader Xi Jinping discussed the possibility of extending human life to 150 years and the prospects of “biological immortality” at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit, Bloomberg reports.

Technology and immortality

Vladimir Putin, born 7 October 1952, is 72. Xi Jinping, born 15 June 1953, is also 72.

Xi noted that in the past, most people did not live past 70, while today, “at 70, a person is still a child.”

“Due to the development of biotechnology, human organs can be transplanted continuously, and people will be able to live longer and longer, potentially even achieving immortality,” Putin responded. 

Putin compared this vision to ideas promoted by former Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi, who actively advocated health and life extension initiatives.

Life amid death

These discussions come against the backdrop of the massive loss of life in Ukraine. Over one million Russians have died and been wounded during the war since 2022. Mariupol experienced mass killings with at least 100,000 civilians killed, and more than 13,800 civilians have been victims of missile attacks across Ukraine. Meanwhile, Putin and his counterpart are discussing eternal life.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed gratitude to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un for the “courage” of its soldiers fighting against Ukraine, Sky News reports. He said “Russia will never forget North Korea’s participation in the fight against modern neo-Nazism.”

“Battle with neo-Nazism”

“Russia will never forget North Korea’s participation in the fight against modern neo-Nazism. We will not forget the losses suffered by your armed forces and the families of your soldiers,” said Putin. 

In response, Kim thanked the Russian ruler for the personal meeting and declared that North Korea would “do everything” to fulfill its “brotherly duty” and support Russia.

North Korean soldiers on the frontline 

South Korean intelligence had previously reported that around 2,000 North Korean troops were killed in combat. Currently, North Korea plans to send an additional 6,000 soldiers to Russia as part of a third deployment rotation.

Starting 1 December, Denmark will begin producing solid rocket fuel for Ukraine’s new cruise missiles, Danmarks Radio reports. 

Plant near F-35 airbase

The Ukrainian company FPRT, a part of Fire Point, will establish a new plant near Skrydstrup Airbase, home to the Royal Danish Air Force’s F-35 fighters. This location will provide quick access to advanced military technologies and integration into national defense.

Solid Fuel Technology

Ukraine’s Flamingo cruise missile uses solid rocket fuel, which ignites instantly, provides stable combustion, and does not require fueling before launch, unlike liquid fuel.

Large-scale project for national defense

The company has already received a Danish CVR number and launched a website with information about the project. FPRT plans to build modern production facilities in Vojens, while qualification and operational testing will take place at specialized sites outside the plant.

“Our activities are aimed at supporting programs that are vital for Denmark’s national defense,” the FPRT website states.

Russia is turning the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant into a nuclear weapon. Any attempt by Moscow to impose new forms of control over the facility constitutes a direct escalation of nuclear security threats for both Ukraine and Europe, the Ministry of Energy of Ukraine has warned.

Putin floats “cooperation” on ZNPP

On 2 September in Beijing, during a meeting with Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, Russian President Vladimir Putin suggested that “under favorable circumstances, Russia, the US, and Ukraine could cooperate at the Zaporizhzhia NPP.”

Ministry of Energy: plant occupied and in peril

Ukraine’s Ministry of Energy stresses that Russia seized the civilian nuclear facility by force and continues to block legitimate Ukrainian control.

“Russia attacked with heavy military equipment and occupied Ukraine’s civilian nuclear facility, the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant,” it claims. 

The ministry emphasizes that the plant is operating under an extraordinary threat scenario, unanticipated by design standards or international safety frameworks.

Dangerous shutdowns and risk of disaster

Since the occupation began, Russia has caused “systemic, critically dangerous deformations” at the site.

This includes the destruction of the Kakhovka dam, which eliminated the primary water source for cooling reactors, and nine full disconnections from Ukraine’s power grid.

“These are direct preconditions for a nuclear accident,” the ministry warns. 

Call for international action

Kyiv views Putin’s remarks on new maintenance models at ZNPP as an attempt to turn the plant into a military tool.

“Ukraine calls on the international community to provide a clear assessment of these statements and actions, given their potential impact on the security of the entire European continent,” the ministry stressed.

Ukraine will raise the issue at the September session of the International Atomic Energy Agency General Conference (IAEA) and urge global condemnation of Russia’s actions.

IAEA denied access to a new dam

On 31 August, IAEA Director Rafael Grossi said that Russia did not allow the organization’s inspectors to access the new dam that the occupiers built near the plant, according to Sky News. 

“Our access to this dam is essential to assess the cooling water situation which is crucial given the fragile nuclear safety situation at the ZNPP,” he said.

He added that the problem is further complicated by the fact that the ZNPP currently relies on a single external power line to supply electricity to the plant’s safety systems, while the plant itself is not producing power.

Germany’s Federal Criminal Police Office and intelligence agencies have issued a warning: Russia is attempting to recruit citizens via social media for espionage and sabotage. These so-called “single-use agents” are lured into committing crimes on behalf of foreign intelligence services.

How the recruitment scheme works

According to German intelligence, malicious actors initiate casual conversations on social networks, assess the user’s political stance, and later offer money for criminal acts — such as property damage.

“Anyone who agrees becomes an ‘agent’ of another state… Behind these recruitment attempts may stand foreign intelligence services. Their goal is to destabilize Germany using people within the country,” the agencies cautioned.

Military facilities in focus

Authorities stress that Russian intelligence is particularly interested in military bases and sites where Ukrainian soldiers are being trained.

“Perpetrators hope to gain strategic advantages by spying on such facilities or disrupting their operations… Successful sabotage could severely damage military structures and undermine trust in the state,” the statement reads.

This represents a classic case of hybrid warfare, where an enemy seeks to weaken its opponent without direct confrontation.

Harsh punishment for “agents”

German citizens are urged not to fall for such recruitment attempts and to remember the consequences. “Anti-constitutional sabotage” in Germany carries a penalty of up to five years in prison, while “espionage activities” can result in up to ten years.

If crimes are proven to be carried out in the interests of a foreign intelligence service, the punishment is even harsher. 

Ukraine is carrying out a multibillion-dollar arms buildup program, funded by Europe. The plan is seen as the best chance to defend against Russia amid reduced American aid and uncertainty over Western security guarantees, reports The New York Times.

Best security guarantee for Ukraine? 

Under this plan, the focus will be on developing Ukraine’s domestic defense industry. In particular, at the end of August, Ukraine began production of its long-range cruise missile, the Flamingo.

This domestically produced missile has a flight range exceeding 3,000 km and carries a 1,150 kg warhead. The company that designed them, FirePoint, also manufactures the FP-series drones. It is now actively scaling the Flamingo project alongside its drone production. FP-1 drones have been used against targets in Russia since at least 2024.

According to Maksym Skrypchenko, president of the Transatlantic Dialogue Center, Ukraine’s own missile program could be the country’s best security guarantee.

“The whole model is that we get contracts, written agreements, that state we will have this number of weapons provided to Ukraine by this year, from the United States, from the Europeans,” Skrypchenko said.

He is confident that Moscow can be deterred from a new attack if Ukraine possesses several hundred long-range ballistic missiles.

Technological advantage

The Ukrainian army is unlikely to match Russia in troop numbers, which is why increasing weapons production makes sense. However, it is still unclear how far this military buildup can go. European countries are already facing budgetary difficulties, which could limit the level of support Ukraine expects.

Building security shield from Russia 

Discussions over security guarantees have not yet produced significant results. Meanwhile, Russia is attempting to disrupt them, demanding a voice in certain matters, the report emphasizes.

This is why Ukraine is focusing on developing its own security guarantees. Producing Ukrainian weapons and purchasing Western arms are areas over which Russia can have almost no influence.

“This is not something the Russians can really discuss. That’s our advantage,” Aliona Hetmanchuk, Head of Ukraine’s Mission to NATO, told journalists.

Planning the production scales

Recent pledges from Germany and Norway to provide up to $10 billion in military and civilian aid to Ukraine next year indicate that Europe is ready to meet this challenge. These large sums mark a turning point, as previously Western partners provided smaller, short-term financial allocations.

Analysts told journalists that larger financial packages could help Ukraine better plan the long-term task of arming its army.

Meanwhile, Russia is showing no sign of intention to end the war in Ukraine. In recent months, Putin has only:

• intensified its attacks on Ukraine, killing more civilians than in 2024
• deployed nearly 100,000 troops to Donetsk Oblast
• refused to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy
• continued strengthening ties with its main economic partner, China. 

Russian President Vladimir Putin says the EU has no reason to worry about potential Moscow aggression. He denies that the Kremlin is preparing for an attack and says that under US President Donald Trump, America began to “listen to Russia,” reports the pro-Kremlin outlet RIA Novosti.

Putin made these statements during a meeting with Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in China. 

On 31 August, he arrived in China, Russia’s main economic partner, which provides the Kremlin with unprecendent support during its war against Ukraine, on a four-day visit. It came just as US President Donald Trump’s deadline for a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to stop the war has expired.

Trump’s deadline and Russia’s new attacks

Putin claims that any talk about Moscow planning to attack the EU is “Western fiction.”

“They are specialists in fairy tales and horror movies. Any rational person perfectly understands that Russia is not going to attack anyone,” he said.

Before the beginning of Russia’s all-out war on Ukraine in 2022, Putin also repeatedly denied any plans for an attack or invasion in his official statements. Russian officials consistently rejected accusations of preparing military actions against Ukraine, calling the buildup of troops near the border “unfounded tension-mongering.”

It was only on 22 February 2022, that Putin announced the start of the so-called “special military operation” on Ukrainian territory, effectively acknowledging the military actions that had already begun.

The war in Ukraine – “protection of its own interests”

The Russian ruler also justified aggression in Ukraine, claiming that Moscow is allegedly “forced to protect people who tie their fate to Russia.”

“Russia’s only goal in Ukraine is the protection of its own interests,” Putin added.

He also shifted responsibility for attacks on Ukraine on its authorities: “Moscow endured Ukrainian strikes on Russian energy for a long time and then began to respond seriously.”

Lies about EU integration and the Zaporizhzhia NPP

Putin assured that Russia has “never opposed Ukraine’s EU membership” but called Ukraine’s accession to NATO unacceptable. He also allowed for the possibility of a tripartite cooperation at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant involving the US and Ukraine.

Experts emphasize that such statements are part of a Kremlin information operation aimed at the West and the Global South, intended to justify three years of aggression and attacks on civilians.

In addition, Putin praised the administration of US President Donald Trump, which refused to provide free aid to Ukraine and introduced no new sanctions against Russia. According to him, under Trump, America began to “listen to Russia,” a claim he said was confirmed by the Alaska summit.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is once again lying about strikes on Ukraine. During a meeting with Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico at the summit in China, he claimed that Russia’s massive attacks were in response to Ukrainian assaults on Russian energy facilities, according to the pro-Kremlin outlet RIA Novosti.

Putin justifies attacks on energy infrastructure

“Moscow endured Ukrainian strikes on Russian energy for a long time, and then began to respond seriously,” Putin said.

Meanwhile, Andrii Kovalenko, head of Ukraine’s Center for Countering Disinformation, calls his statements a blatant lie, as since 2022, Russia has systematically attacked Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, especially during the preparation for winter and in winter itself.

Attacks on civilians continue

Once again, he tried to shift the responsibility for Russian aggression onto Ukraine, explained Kovalenko. 

“Putin is preparing an informational alibi for strikes on Ukrainian energy. In Beijing, he claimed that Russia ‘never hit energy’ and only responds to Ukrainian attacks on the oil sector. This is false,” he stressed.

Kovalenko added that the Russians strike during the lead-up to winter and directly in winter. This year, they also did not stop attacks on energy in regions bordering Russia.

Kremlin information operation

According to Kovalenko, Putin’s speech in Beijing is part of another Russian information operation aimed at the West and the Global South.

“It is an attempt to shift responsibility for terrorizing Ukrainians onto us,” he claimed.

The Russians were the ones who started the war and attacks on energy, and they have never stopped.

According to the UN, Russia’s war has killed more than 13,800 civilians in Ukraine. Attacks on Ukraine intensified, particularly in 2025, following the launch of peace initiatives by US President Donald Trump.

Russia was not punished with sanctions or any other measures. On the contrary, President Putin was invited to a meeting with Trump in Alaska.

Putin urges Europe to weaponize energy against Ukraine, praises Trump’s inaction

Also, during the meeting with Fico, Putin called “on his friends in Europe” to cut Ukraine’s fuel and electricity supplies, the Kremlin press service reports. The Russian ruler emphasized that Ukraine receives a significant amount of energy resources through its Eastern European neighbors.

“Shut off their gas supplies, shut off their electricity supplies, and they will immediately understand that there are limits to violating others’ interests,” Putin said in a conversation with Robert Fico.

He also praised the administration of US President Donald Trump, which refused to provide free aid to Ukraine and introduced no new sanctions against Russia. According to Putin, under Trump, America began to “listen to Russia,” a claim he said was confirmed by the Alaska summit.

Western sanctions against Russia are working and are already hitting the aggressor’s economy hard, according to Ukraine’s Foreign Intelligence Service, which cited declines in key sectors. At the same time, the Kremlin is trying to offset its losses by looting temporarily occupied Ukrainian lands.

Sanctions squeeze the Russian economy

Business activity in Russia continues to fall. The manufacturing PMI, calculated by S&P Global, dropped to 48.7 in August out of 100 points, marking the third consecutive month in contraction territory.

Sunflower oil production in Russia also fell by 11% year-on-year. The coal sector is even worse off: 23 enterprises have halted operations due to the crisis, while 129 mines and open-pit sites, responsible for up to 85% of the country’s coal output, are seeking government support.

Coal and grain from occupied territories

Despite the crisis, Russia is trying to keep its economy afloat by plundering Ukrainian lands. New images from temporarily occupied Mariupol have shown how Russian forces are loading ships with stolen grain and coal. 

“Mariupol port. Two ships are being loaded at the same time… We expect the coal ship to head to the port of Temryuk for export clearance to Algeria, and the bulk carrier with grain to go to Egypt. Looting has predictably resumed,” reported Petro Andriushchenko, head of the Center for the Study of Occupation.

Stolen grain becomes the Kremlin’s business

According to the Center for National Resistance, Russia has turned stolen Ukrainian grain into a global business. Wheat that Moscow claims as “Russian” is purchased by 70 countries, including Egypt, Türkiye, and Iran. 

Russia has been preparing for war with Ukraine since 2007. Since then, Russia’s largest tank manufacturer, Uralvagonzavod, has been accumulating hundreds of units of foreign high-tech machinery to support Moscow’s aggression against Ukraine, Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence or HUR reports. 

Foreign equipment strengthens Russia’s military-industrial complex

HUR has published new data in the “Tools of War” section of the War&Sanctions portal on over 260 machine tools, CNC processing centers, and other foreign-made equipment operating within the Russian military-industrial complex.

This portal documents entities and companies helping Russia wage the war against Ukraine. 

According to Kyrylo Budanov, Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence chief, most of these purchases occurred during the rearmament of Russia’s defense industry ahead of the all-out war.

Sanctions and service restrictions – an effective limiting mechanism

This equipment requires regular maintenance, repairs, and software updates. Manufacturers can restrict the supply of spare parts, technical fluids, and CNC software, directly impacting the operation of Russia’s military machinery.

Production expansion during wartime

In 2024, Uralvagonzavod launched a new tank engine production line equipped with advanced CNC machinery from leading European manufacturers. While deliveries via third countries continue, they have become slower, more complicated, and more expensive due to sanctions.

Effectively limiting Russian aggression requires coordinated diplomatic efforts, investigation of violations, and blocking of circumvention schemes.

The Russian intelligence has assassination lists, which includes Ukrainian prominent politicians, officials, and public figures. Former Speaker of the Ukrainian Parliament, Andrii Parubiy, who was killed in Lviv by a Russian agent, was in one of them even before the war, says deputy Iryna Herashchenko from his European Solidarity party, Radio NV reports. 

Ukraine investigates Russian link to assassination of politician who opposed Kremlin for 30 years

Moscow behind every attempt

“From the very first second, it was clear that Moscow was behind this. Whoever pulled the trigger, Moscow was controlling it,” says Herashchenko.

The first attempt on Parubiy’s life occurred in December 2014, when a grenade was thrown near the Kyiv hotel. In 2022, the Russians added him to a “hit list” targeting dozens of Ukrainian politicians.

Telegram recruitment and psychological pressure

Herashchenko explained that Russian intelligence tried to recruit a suspect via Telegram, offering the body of Parubiy’s missing son as leverage, exploiting his emotional vulnerability.

“The person was easy prey for the FSB to execute this absolutely hellish plan,” she noted.

The European Solidarity faction is pushing for legislation to de-anonymize Telegram in Ukraine to prevent such crimes in the future.

Threats persist

Herashchenko also recalled threats during the Minsk negotiations, when Moscow-aligned actors warned Ukrainian participants.

“Do you think we don’t know where you live? Your house will be burned by the families of prisoners of war,” she repeats Russian threats to Ukrainian officials. 

Russia breached the Minsk agreements, which focused on reaching peace in Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts of Ukraine, and started the all-out war in 2022.

Herashchenko emphasizes that such Russian tactics continue today, underscoring the ongoing dangers faced by Ukrainian politicians.

The Main Intelligence Directorate (HUR) of the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense continues to demonstrate its strength, UNIAN reports. In temporarily occupied Crimea, several key Russian targets have been destroyed, including the RT-70 radio telescope, in a latest strike. 

Impressive results from the Phantoms special unit

According to HUR and the Ukrainian Navy, in August, fighters from the special unit “Phantoms” struck:

• the Utios-T radar system
• the RT-70 radio telescope
• the GLONASS satellite navigation system in its dome
• the coastal radar station MR-10M1 “Mys” M1
• the 96L6-AP radar of the S-400 missile system

“The radio telescope is truly unique. It was built during Soviet times to monitor satellite constellations. It is genuinely one-of-a-kind,” emphasizes Ukrainian Navy Spokesperson Captain 3rd Rank Dmytro Pletenchuk.

Strategy to thin out Russian air defenses

Pletenchuk noted that in Crimea, the enemy deployed a dense network of air defense systems to protect the Crimean Bridge and the peninsula’s military infrastructure. The layered air defense system also covers Novorossiysk, where the Black Sea Fleet’s missile carriers are based.

“Clearing a path to other Russian targets begins with the air defenses,” he stresses.

Disrupting Russia and destroying its key targets makes their restoration costly and difficult.

Impact on Russia’s defense capabilities

Destroying such targets significantly complicates the operation of Russian air defense, reducing its effectiveness against airstrikes, missile attacks, and drones. This is a strategic step in the demilitarization of temporarily occupied Crimea and in preparing for subsequent operations by Ukrainian forces.

The White House has urged European countries to follow the US and impose restrictive measures on India for its purchases of Russian oil, which fund the war in Ukraine, India Today reports. 

US tariffs on Indian goods

In August 2025, the US raised tariffs on goods from India up to 50%, criticizing New Delhi for supporting Russia’s economic machinery. At the same time, Washington has not imposed sanctions on China, the main sponsor of the war and Moscow’s key economic partner.

A Russian drone caught filming its own camera test in a Chinese factory before being shot down in Ukraine

Europe continues to buy Russian energy

India has criticized the US decision, pointing out double standards: Europe itself continues to purchase oil from Russia. EU–Russia trade in 2024 reached €67.5 billion in goods and €17.2 billion in services. Europe also imported a record 16.5 million tons of Russian LNG, the highest number since 2022.

Sanctions do not cover key Russian exports

Many critical Russian exports remain unrestricted, including palladium for the US automotive industry, uranium for nuclear power plants, fertilizers, chemicals, metals, and equipment.

Sources report that Trump also pressured India to nominate him for the Nobel Peace Prize. After being rejected, he responded with tariffs. This has prompted India to strengthen its ties with China and reinforced so-called anti-American cooperation among the so-called “axis of upheaval” countries.

Today, the US administration seeks to have Europe join in sanction pressure on New Delhi if India does not stop buying Russian oil.

“Do not repeat the mistakes of World War II.” Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha has called on international allies to act decisively and resist Russian aggression.

Remembering the lessons of history

Sybiha recalled that on 1 September 1939, Hitler attacked Poland, soon joined by Stalin, initiating the bloodiest war in history.

“Today it is extremely important to remember what led to that day: weakness and naive faith that territorial concessions would ‘appease’ the aggressor,” the Ukrainian foreign minister noted.

Responsibility for the World War II disaster

The minister emphasized that the Nazi Third Reich bears full responsibility for the war, but there were also those who “allowed this evil to grow stronger—avoiding difficult decisions and favoring weakness over strength.”

According to Sybiha, the best way to honor the memory of tens of millions of victims is not to repeat the same mistakes today.

Allies’ unity and support for Ukraine

Sybiga stressed that the unity of allies, pressure on the Russian aggressor, and consistent support for Ukraine are critically important for Europe’s security and long-term peace.

“Strength and determination today are the guarantee of future security and peace in Europe,” he added.

Earlier, US President Donald Trump proposed that Ukraine consider territorial concessions to Russia as part of ending the war. His proposal involved Ukraine relinquishing control over Donetsk Oblast to Russia, in exchange for Russia agreeing to freeze the front lines and halt further advances. 

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy firmly rejected any proposal to cede Ukrainian land to Russia. He emphasized Ukraine’s sovereignty and constitutional prohibition on surrendering territory to the occupier. 

“Getting used to war is the greatest victory of the empire of evil from the East.” At Westerplatte in Gdańsk, during the ceremony marking the 86th anniversary of the outbreak of World War II, Polish Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz called on the world to remember the lessons of history and resist Russian aggression, PAP reports. 

Poland: Support for Ukraine is a matter of national security

Kosiniak-Kamysz reminded that Poles cannot ignore the war against Ukraine.

“People and children are dying there. Bombs are falling on nurseries, kindergartens, and hospitals,” said the minister.

According to him, beyond civilizational, humanitarian, and Christian reasons to support Ukraine, there is another — the security of Poland itself.

Historical experience and national duty

The minister recalled that throughout history, Poles have often paid a high price for freedom.

“Supporting Ukrainian soldiers is the Polish reason for existence, Poland’s national interest, and Poland’s security,” he declared.

Kosiniak-Kamysz acknowledged that sensitivity tends to fade over time, but the state duty cannot be destroyed by fatigue or despair. He stressed that this is also a debt to the memory of the Polish soldiers who defended Westerplatte.

For the first time in history, the Ukrainian company Kyivstar has entered the American NASDAQ stock exchange. Now the name of Ukraine’s capital resonates in the world’s financial center, with shares trading under the ticker KYIV, says Minister of Digital Transformation Mykhailo Fedorov.

How the state changed the rules of the game

Minister of Digital Transformation Mykhailo Fedorov emphasizes that this success became possible thanks to reforms in the telecom sector. In recent years:

• laws were adopted to speed up the allocation of land plots for networks;
• permits for mobile towers are now issued in 25 days instead of 2 years.
• base stations are kept running even during power outages.
• conditions were created for the launch of 5G and the EU-wide “roam like at home”,
• new frequency licenses were issued, connecting millions of Ukrainians to the internet.
• 4G coverage was expanded to more than 9,000 settlements.

Nasdaq and Kyivstar: a breakthrough for Ukrainian business

Now a Ukrainian company stands alongside giants — Apple, Google, Microsoft, Meta, and Amazon. It sends a strong signal to global investors: even during war, Ukraine can carry out breakthrough business deals.

Investment boom in telecom

Kyivstar’s entry to Nasdaq is not the only milestone.

• Lifecell has attracted the French company NJJ Holding.
• Vodafone, together with Nokia and Finnvera, is investing tens of millions into networks and testing 5G.
• Kyivstar, in partnership with Starlink and SpaceX, is launching Direct-to-Cell, an advanced satellite communication technology.

Ukrainian telecom has proven that despite war, infrastructure losses, and constant shelling, it can develop and integrate into the global economy.

Ukrainian intelligence forces have delivered a powerful strike against the occupiers’ military infrastructure in temporarily occupied Crimea. The special unit Phantoms destroyed several expensive Russian air-defense and radar systems, the agency reports.

Phantoms strike at Russia’s defenses

According to Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence Directorate, the elite unit continues systematically dismantling Russia’s air-defense network. The Phantoms are tasked with precision strikes against radar complexes, logistics hubs, and enemy military infrastructure.

What has been destroyed?

Ukrainian forces knocked out unique Russian systems, including:

• radar complex “Utyos-T”;
• the giant radio telescope RT-70;
• GLONASS satellite navigation system (Russia’s equivalent of GPS);
• coastal radar MR-10M1 “Mys” M1;
• 96L6-AP radar from the S-400 air-defense system.

Consequences for the occupiers

The loss of these systems seriously complicates the work of Russian air defense on the peninsula. Without key radars and navigation, the occupiers are left far more vulnerable to strikes by Ukrainian missiles, aircraft, and drones.

“The demilitarization of temporarily occupied Crimea continues!” Ukraine’s military intelligence emphasizes.

The Russian private military company Wagner is experiencing serious setbacks in Mali: around two thousand fighters failed to improve security or control resources as they did in the Central African Republic. Instead of fighting jihadists, the mercenaries clashed with the Malian army, which only increased violence, reports the Foreign Intelligence Service of Ukraine. 

Goïta junta and Kremlin plan failures

After the 2021 coup, power in Mali was seized by a junta led by Assimi Goïta, who hoped for effective cooperation with Russian mercenaries. Instead, the JNIM network (Al-Qaeda in the Sahel) continues to strengthen its position in the region, and civilian casualties rose from 736 per year to over 3,000 in 2022–2024. Notably, 80% of deaths were caused not by jihadists but by the local army and Wagner forces.

Internal conflicts: violence, disobedience, and racism

Relations between Russian mercenaries and Malian forces sharply deteriorated: reports show disobedience to orders, equipment theft, and acts of racism. In August, repression targeted dozens of officers who disagreed with Wagner methods. Civilians subjected to terror refuse to cooperate with the mercenaries.

Kremlin fails to control resources

Unlike in Sudan and the CAR, Russia did not gain access to mineral resources, including gold mines. Goïta rejected Moscow’s demands and is seeking alternative partners for security and resource extraction.

Armin Papperger, head of German defense conglomerate Rheinmetall, said Ukraine will soon receive its first ammunition from a new plant in Unterlüß, Lower Saxony, Deutsche Welle reports. 

First deliveries and 2026 plans

This year, 25,000 shells will be sent to Ukraine. The factory could produce 150,000 or more next year.

“We will increase production to 350,000 for Germany and Ukraine. Next year, we can deliver at least 100,000, and later possibly 200,000 shells to Ukraine,” Papperger noted.

Ukrainian plant: plans and challenges

Rheinmetall is building a similar factory in Ukraine, but bureaucracy is slowing the process.

“I discussed this with Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal. I told him: it can be done in 14 months. Currently, the civilian part isn’t ready; a concept is needed,” the CEO explained.

He added that the plant could be ready in 12–14 months if organizational issues are resolved.

Drones in Ukraine

The company also plans to invest in drone production — not small quadcopters, but larger, high-tech systems.

“If there are opportunities — we will do it,” Papperger added.

Instead of peace: parades, missiles, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit. Russian President Vladimir Putin has arrived in China on a four-day visit, RBC reports. 

He was invited by Xi Jinping to a military parade marking the anniversary of the end of World War II. This comes just as US President Donald Trump’s deadline for a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to stop the war is expiring.

Trump’s deadline and Russia’s new attacks

The American president gave Putin two weeks to decide on negotiations.

SCO Summit in China: Who’s attending?

Beyond the parade, Putin will participate in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit, scheduled from 31 August to 1 September in Tianjin. The SCO includes Russia, China, India, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Belarus.

More than 20 world leaders are expected. The Kremlin dictator plans to meet with Xi Jinping, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

A Russian drone caught filming its own camera test in a Chinese factory before being shot down in Ukraine

India between China and the US

Earlier, Trump imposed tariffs on India over its imports of Russian oil, which fuels Moscow’s war machine. This sparked outrage in Delhi, which pointed out that Europe continues buying Russian oil without facing sanctions.

According to The New York Times, Trump also pressured India to nominate him for the Nobel Peace Prize. After Delhi refused, he retaliated with tariffs.

Against this backdrop, India may strengthen cooperation with Russia and China, both key players in the oil and gas market, and part of the “axis of upheaval”, the growing anti-American collaboration between the nations. 

Two weeks are ticking down. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has reminded that US President Donald Trump’s deadline for Russian President Vladimir Putin to agree to a trilateral meeting is ending this Monday, on 1 September. 

US, Ukraine, and Russia: Will the meeting happen?

During his Washington visit on 19 August, Trump said his administration was ready to organize talks between Zelenskyy and Putin to reach an agreement on ending the war.

“At that time, the president said, ‘We will be ready in a couple of weeks.’ That means two to three weeks from our conversation. I want to remind that two weeks are up on Monday,” Zelenskyy emphasized.

Meanwhile, Putin refuses to engage in negotiations. According to German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, in this case Russia’s war against Ukraine could continue for “many months.”

Merz: Ukraine war could last “many months” as Putin blocks two-week summit plan

Kyiv under attack: no sign of peace

There is no evidence that Moscow seeks peace. Despite talks of negotiations, Russia continues massive attacks on Ukraine. In the latest strike on Kyiv, all types of weapons were used: Shahed drones, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles. A total of 629 targets targeted the Ukrainian capital. The strike lasted nine hours and killed 25 people, including four children. 

Moscow’s conditions: ultimatum, not peace

Despite the warm Trump-Putin meeting in Alaska, Russia’s demands regarding Ukraine have not changed. Today, Russian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova outlined what Russia calls “peace conditions”:

• Demilitarization of Ukraine,
• Denazification,
• Neutral, non-aligned, and nuclear-free status,
• Recognition of occupied territories,
• Guarantees of rights of the Russian language and the Russian-speaking population, 
• End to persecution of canonical Orthodoxy.

Moscow supposedly offers “security guarantees” only after these conditions are met. In reality, these demands are mutually exclusive and would mean the elimination of an independent Ukraine.

For the first time in history, Ukraine has legally defined “rashism.” Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has signed the Law “On the Fundamentals of State Policy of National Memory of the Ukrainian People,” which officially defines the concept behind Russia’s military aggression. 

The document establishes the legal foundations for preserving national memory and countering the ideology of the aggressor state.

What is rashism under Ukrainian law?

According to the text, rashism is a type of totalitarian ideology and practice that forms the basis of Russia’s Nazi-style totalitarian regime. It includes traits of Russian chauvinism, imperialism, as well as the practices of both communist and Nazi regimes.

Other key definitions

The law also defines terms such as “War for Ukraine’s Independence,” “crimes against the Ukrainian people,” and “historical anti-Ukrainian propaganda.” This provides a legal framework for clearly interpreting historical events and crimes committed against Ukraine.

National memory strategy

The document stipulates that the Cabinet of Ministers will approve a State Strategy for the Restoration and Preservation of National Memory and an Action Plan for its implementation every five years. The law also regulates rules for naming legal entities and property: names may only be changed after at least 10 years, with certain exceptions.

Finland and Poland are considering an unusual but quite real weapon against possible Russian aggression. The countries are planning to restore restore the long-lost boggy floodplain in strategy to create a shield from troops and tanks, while also helping to fight climate change by renewing carbon sinks, Politico reports. 

Bogs as a trap for Russian equipment

Restored peat bogs could stop the advance of Russian armored vehicles and infantry.

“When waterlogged, this terrain represents a dangerous trap for military trucks and tanks,” the report says. 

In a tragic example in 2025, four US soldiers stationed in Lithuania were found dead when they drove their 63-ton M88 Hercules armored vehicle into a bog. 

They disappeared during military exercises at the General Silvestras Žukauskas training ground in Pabradė, a town located less than 10 km (6 miles) from the Belarusian border.

NATO gains a new natural line of defense

Most European peatlands are concentrated along NATO’s border with Russia and Belarus — from the Finnish Arctic through the Baltic states to eastern Poland. Scientists emphasize that restoring part of the bogs would be a relatively cheap and simple step that combines environmental and defense goals.

Finland and Poland launch pilot projects

Finland’s defense and environment ministries will already begin negotiations this fall on a pilot project to restore peatlands. Poland is also interested in bogs as a barrier: here the initiative fits into the large-scale “Eastern Shield” program, which envisions strengthening the eastern border with networks of fences and obstacles.

Former Kherson mayor Volodymyr Mykolaienko, released from Russian captivity on Ukraine’s Independence Day, on 24 August, in a 146-for-146 prisoner exchange, gave his first interview to MOST.

He recounted his abduction, torture, life in prisons, and how the occupiers tried to make him “governor” instead of Volodymyr Saldo, Russia’s collaborator. 

“You can take Saldo’s place”

Mykolaienko was kidnapped in 2022. He was held in Kherson for 16 days before being transferred via Crimea to Voronezh Oblast.

“The main goal was to force me to cooperate. Saldo wasn’t even the ‘governor’ yet. They said, ‘You can take this place,’” he recalled.

FSB officers tried to make him recognize the occupation authorities: “Well, haven’t changed your mind? If not — you’ll go to Sevastopol, reconsider in a month or two, and recognize the new government.” But Mykolaienko refused.

Torture and broken ribs

In detention, he suffered systematic beatings: “Broken ribs. They broke them three times: once on Good Friday, second on Pioneer Day, third when we were ‘settling in’ Pakino.”

“Shockers and batons, boards they beat with — that’s all their prosecutors and lawyers,” he said.

The first days of captivity were the worst: “Three times a day consistently: morning inspection, evening inspection, and during the day either a dog bites or you get beaten in the bath.”

“I fulfilled my family duty”

The occupiers staged a mock execution.

“They lined me up against the wall and said, ‘We’re going to execute you now.’ I said, ‘Go ahead.’ They asked if I was scared. I said, scared, don’t want to die, but I fulfilled my family duty — I have two grandchildren,” said Mykolaienko. 

 

One of the Russians started shooting into the wall but others stopped him. 

He and other prisoners lived in complete informational isolation. Only from new prisoners did they learn about Kherson’s liberation.

“I said in the cell: ‘Kherson is Ukrainian.’ Everyone cheered,” he recalled.

 

Guilt and gratitude

The politician admits he feels discomfort surviving while others remain captive: “You can try to console yourself however you want, but the discomfort is still there. You get exchanged, and the same people remain.”

At the same time, he acknowledges that in Russian captivity, he “didn’t know if I would survive another year there.”

A secret document has exposed Hungary as the Kremlin’s “Trojan horse” inside the EU, say InformNapalm investigators. They have obtained a letter revealing the so-called “Ansat” project, a scheme discussed at the level of the Hungarian government with Russia’s state-owned Helicopters of Russia.

The plan was to use Hungary as a platform for legalizing and assembling Russian military equipment, which would then be exported under a “European” brand.

“While most EU countries stand with Ukraine and comply with sanctions, Budapest has become a gateway for Moscow to bypass restrictions and advance its military-industrial interests,” says InformPalm. 

How Hungary helped the Kremlin bypass sanctions

The document confirms that:

• The project was presented to Hungary’s Ministry of Finance and discussed at the government level.
• A joint working group was created with Hungarian officials, including a deputy state secretary of the Finance and Economy Ministry.
• Coordination was entrusted to Armitech Industries Ltd. in Budapest, a company openly lobbying for Russian interests.

Sanctions did not stop Moscow

The evidence shows that even after sanctions were imposed, the Kremlin actively built channels inside the EU to circumvent them. Hungary turned out to be one of its links, willing to shield Russia’s defense projects.

Orbán and political blockades in the EU and NATO

“Every time Orbán blocks EU aid to Ukraine or vetoes NATO decisions, remember: this is not just politics but direct collusion with Russia’s defense industry,” InformNapalm stresses.

Earlier, Hungary banned a top Ukrainian drone unit commander from entering the country and the Schengen zone after strikes on the Druzhba oil pipeline.

Hungarian officials called the pipeline vital for their country’s as Hungary is still receiving Russian oil and financing Moscow’s war machine against Ukraine, despite the fourth year of Russia’s all-out war. 

Hungary bans Ukrainian commander over Russian pipeline hit — latest sign of Budapest acting as Kremlin’s proxy in EU

Ukrainian Parliament Commissioner for Human Rights Dmytro Lubinets commented on Russia’s intention to withdraw from the European Convention for the Prevention of Torture. He stressed that such a move demonstrates the Kremlin’s disregard for human rights and paves the way for even greater crimes against Ukrainians.

Russia leaves the convention: what it means

Recently, Moscow has announced its withdrawal from the European Torture Convention, which not only prohibits torture but also provides for monitoring of places of detention. Previously, this was carried out by the European Committee for the Prevention of Torture.

According to Lubinets, this decision has several dangerous consequences:

• avoiding international monitoring of torture in prisons and in temporarily occupied territories;
• the loss of legal and judicial mechanisms of pressure on Russia;
• the effective removal of responsibility before the Council of Europe.

“The aggressor state shows that it does not care about human rights and no longer recognizes European norms,” the Ukrainian ombudsman stated.

Threat of mass human rights violations

Russia, which for years has carried out arbitrary detentions, torture, and violence against prisoners of war and civilians, is now officially refusing even its formal international obligations.

Ukrainian journalist abducted from his garden in 2022 returns from Russian captivity weighing less than 45 kg

Lubinets stressed that impunity only breeds new crimes and creates a threat to the global rule of law.

“Such actions by Russia create risks of widespread human rights violations, especially during armed conflicts,” he noted.

What the world must do

Despite Russia’s withdrawal, other international mechanisms remain. Lubinets emphasized the importance of:

• using the UN Convention against Torture;
• cooperating with the International Committee of the Red Cross;
• documenting Russia’s crimes and transferring them to the International Criminal Court;
• imposing sanctions against those involved in torture.

“Torture is part of Russia’s state policy,” Lubinets concluded.

The European Union is developing new sanctions to increase pressure on Russia’s weak war economy, Politico reports. However, the upcoming measures will not target Russian energy sales, which continue to finance Moscow’s war against Ukraine.

Focus on “shadow fleet” and sanctions evasion

European diplomats say the 19th package, expected next month, will target ships of the “shadow fleet” and companies helping Russia bypass existing sanctions.

Secondary sanctions against firms or countries doing business with Moscow could have the greatest impact, but their effectiveness will depend on US cooperation.

US pressure and Trump’s role

Experts note that Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed to talks with US President Donald Trump in Alaska after the US imposed high tariffs on India for buying Russian oil. Next steps could include tighter restrictions on Russia-China trade. Trump hinted at possible “massive sanctions or tariffs” if Moscow does not support peace negotiations.

EU constraints and upcoming summit

“We don’t expect there will be much room for any material Russian oil sanctions in the EU’s 19th sanctions package,” said ICIS analyst Ajay Parmar.

 EU foreign ministers will meet at an informal summit later this week to discuss additional economic measures. While Slovakia and Hungary oppose expanding sanctions, diplomats are confident a unified stance can be achieved.

Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot has announced his country will provide Ukraine with batch of F-16 fighter jets in coming months, Novini.Live reports. 

Belgium has pledged 30 F-16s by 2028—more than any other single donor. These American-made aircraft symbolize Ukraine’s modernization and its fight to reclaim the skies.

Yet as of mid-2025, none have been delivered. Officially, the delay is due to Belgium’s own transition from F-16s to newer F-35s. 

Ukraine support from Benelux

Prévot’s statements came at the Ukraine–Benelux meeting in Odesa on 26 August with foreign ministers from Belgium, Luxembourg, and a representative from the Netherlands. During the event, the leaders reaffirmed support for Ukraine and emphasized the importance of holding a Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression.

Belgium’s contribution: F-16s, drones, and demining

Prévot also said Belgium has trained more than 3,000 Ukrainian military personnel and technicians, provided drones, allocated €20 million to the Ukrainian Grain Initiative, and plans to complete Black Sea demining by 2029.

“I remember the drawings Ukrainian children gave me in Rome. They remind us that this struggle is not just about borders but also the dreams and dignity of a new generation,” Prévot stated.

Joint statement on “grain corridors”

Following the meeting, the officials confirmed in a joint statement:

• Assistance in rebuilding schools, hospitals, and energy infrastructure in Ukraine;
• Financial, military, and humanitarian support “as long as needed”;
• Protection of grain routes in the Black Sea, vital for global food security.

Russia may help China prepare for a new war. Moscow is transferring technologies to Beijing to develop a command-and-control system for amphibious operations, codenamed Sword. DefenseMirror reports that analysts believe this could be a part of preparation for a Taiwan invasion and an attempt to stretch Western forces to different conflicts across the globe. 

Rosoboronexport’s contract with China

In June 2024, Russian arms exporter Rosoboronexport signed a €4.284 million contract with China’s CETC International.

Moscow is supplying technical documentation for a troop management system covering both hardware and software: command-and-staff vehicles, communications systems, field command posts, amphibious combat vehicles, and personal equipment.

Real-time coordination

The system is designed to ensure seamless data transfer and real-time coordination at all levels, from corps command to individual soldiers.

Sword will be integrated into Chinese CSK131A Dongfeng Mengshi armored vehicles. It will display friendly and enemy positions and direct artillery and air support via digital tablets.

Training the PLA

According to the leak, prototypes are being built and tested at training grounds. Meanwhile, 60 PLA soldiers are undergoing instruction: 152 hours of lectures, 130 group sessions, and 150 practical exercises with R-187VE, R-188E, and InmarSat-BGAN Explorer 727 radios. Part of the training is held at the Tulatotchmash plant, using simulators.

Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence has uncovered major corruption scheme in Russia’s 83rd Guards Air Assault Brigade. Commanders fabricated wounds and military awards, siphoning off nearly $2.5 million.

Dozens of Russian soldiers killed in the war against Ukraine remain officially listed as “missing in action.”

“This allows Russia’s defense ministry to withhold compensation from their families. Meanwhile, senior officers enrich themselves through falsified heroics and staged injuries,” the intelligence agency explains.

Fake wounds, fabricated valor

One of the most striking cases concerns Lt. Col. Konstantin Frolov, head of a special operations group. Records state he was wounded four times and awarded four Orders of Courage and two Medals “For Valor.” Russian state media even broadcast stories of his “bravery.”

In reality, Frolov was deliberately shot by his comrades in non-vital areas to sustain fake wounds.

Another 30 Russian soldiers also claimed sham injuries to avoid frontline duty and secure benefits.

Profit above all

While officers enjoyed hospital stays, collecting salaries, bonuses, and illegal payouts, families of the dead were left without support, the intelligence agency adds. For Russia’s commanders, war became a business, built on fabricated feats and counterfeit wounds.

As of 2.20 PM, all miners are now being brought to the surface. Power has been restored, and people are being evacuated from two mines. 

In Donetsk Oblast, Russian shelling cut power to the mines of the Dobropillia community. 148 miners remain trapped underground, says Mykhailo Volynets, head of the Confederation of Free Trade Unions of Ukraine.

Dobropillia — the industrial heart of Donbas

Dobropillia, located in Pokrovsk district of Donetsk Oblast, is an industrial center of a major coal region. The city is known for some of the largest coal deposits in Ukraine and gained city status in 1953.

War and infrastructure destruction

During Russia’s aggression, Dobropillia became a zone of active combat. Regular shelling has damaged residential areas, social infrastructure, water supply, and power networks, making life difficult for local residents.

Miners underground: critical situation

Due to the power outage, the mines remain without electricity. According to DTEK, Ukraine’s top energy company, the Russian attack hit a mine, killing one person and injuring three people.