The longer Russia prolongs its war in Ukraine, the more the global balance of power shifts. Recently, Moscow reportedly supplied North Korea with nuclear submarine modules, including a reactor, a move that could mark a breakthrough for Pyongyang in building its own strategic submarines, Korea JoongAng Daily reports, citing South Korean government sources.

According to several officials, during the first half of 2025, Russia may have delivered two or three modules to North Korea, including a reactor, turbine, and cooling system, which are the key components of a nuclear submarine’s power plant. These were not newly produced units but parts removed from decommissioned Russian submarines.

“Since last year, North Korea has been persistently requesting nuclear submarine technology and advanced fighter jets from Russia.

Russia was initially reluctant but appears to have agreed to provide them this year,” one government source said on condition of anonymity.

A shadow beneath the Pacific

For Pyongyang, nuclear-powered submarines are a strategic priority, as they could enable the capability to launch nuclear strikes against the US. In March, the state-run Rodong Sinmun published photos of Kim Jong Un inspecting a nuclear submarine under construction.

Until recently, experts were convinced that North Korea could not independently develop a reactor for submarines. If the transfer of modules is confirmed, the country would gain access for the first time to a technology that had been out of reach.

Reports also suggest Pyongyang demanded this assistance from Moscow in exchange for sending troops to support Russia’s war in Ukraine.

A red line crossed

Confirmation of the transfer would mean Russia has crossed a “red line,” in blatant violation of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). Such a step would likely provoke new sanctions targeting both North Korea and Russia.

South Korea’s intelligence service has already passed the information to the US and its allies. 

Russia is protecting occupied Crimea better than its oil refineries. Moscow is constantly boosting air defense systems in the peninsula with the most advanced systems in response to Ukraine’s strikes, says Ukrainian Navy Spokesperson Captain 3rd Rank Dmytro Pletenchuk, Espreso reports. 

Meanwhile, Russian oil remains a key source of revenue that funds its military aggression against Ukraine. In 2025, profits from the oil and gas sector account for about 77.7% of Russia’s federal budget. 

Russia deploys S-500 “Prometey”, but fails against Ukrainian attacks

“All the air defense systems they have were already deployed there. They’ve concentrated the S-500 ‘Prometey’ in Crimea for a long time,” Pletenchuk says.

The S-500 is Russia’s newest generation air defense system, designed to intercept ballistic and cruise missiles, strategic aircraft, and hypersonic missiles. It can detect targets up to 800 km away and strike them at a range of 600 km, as per Defence Blog. 

Equipped with advanced electronic warfare capabilities, it can operate independently or integrate with S-400 systems, each valued at approximately $600 million.

Despite these defenses, Ukrainian forces destroyed an S-500 complex in Donbas this summer with ATACMS missiles, according to the Tivaz artillery division.

Crimea remains strategic for Russia

Pletenchuk notes that Crimea continues to be a critical location for Russia.

“The Russians will cling to the peninsula until the very end. They are strengthening Crimea’s air defenses far more than their own oil refineries,” he said.

Despite the saturation of air defenses, Ukraine continues to strike Russian military assets in Crimea.

“Our Armed Forces are still able to target key enemy resources. For Russia, the oil industry is particularly important because it funds their operations and contributes to their budget,” Pletenchuk adds.

Key targets of the last few months

In August, Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence reported that it destroyed several high-value Russian targets in Crimea, including:

• UTIOS-T radar system
• RT-70 radio telescope, a unique Soviet-era facility for monitoring satellite constellations
• GLONASS satellite navigation system dome
• Coastal radar station MR-10M1 ‘Mys’ M1
• 96L6-AP radar of the S-400 missile system

The most interesting of them is the radio telescope. It was built during Soviet times to monitor satellite constellations. Pletenchuk emphasized that “it was genuinely one-of-a-kind.”

Poland has recorded another night of drone provocations from Russia and Belarus. The country’s Border Guard Service has reported heightened activity of the enemy targets attempting to violate its airspace, PAP reports. 

Polish Minister of Interior Affairs Mariusz Kamiński describes the situation on the Polish-Belarusian border as “very tense.”

“Tonight, the Border Guard observed increased activity of Belarusian and Russian drones trying to cross Polish airspace,” the minister emphasizes.

Border openings only when safe

When asked about reopening border crossings with Belarus, Kamiński reminded that the closure was imposed due to the Russian-Belarusian military exercises “Zapad-2025”.

During the drills, both countries tested an attack on Poland and a nuclear attack. 

“The border will open only when we have full confidence that there are no threats or provocations to Poland. If our intelligence confirms that it is safe, we will reopen the border,” he added.

On 16 September, Belarus also announced that its forces practiced deploying Russia’s Oreshnik missile system, marking the first known training with the weapon system outside Russia.

Impact on freight transport

The suspension affects road and rail transport in both directions, hitting the main route that carries 90% of rail freight between China and the EU. In 2024, shipments via this route increased by 10.6%, and the value of goods rose by 85%, reaching €25.07 billion, as per Politico.

PKP Cargo warned that short delays are manageable, but prolonged border closure would force a rerouting of trade to southern corridors.

Poland is preparing a record defense budget amid Russian drone attacks. On 18 September, Polish Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz announced that in 2026, the country’s defense spending will reach a record $55 billion, which is 4.8% of GDP, ArmyInform reports. 

He emphasized that this is an all-time high for free Poland, though even this increase does not fully meet the country’s security needs. 

“Between 2022 and 2026, the budget has tripled. Over four years, we have tripled spending on Polish state security, and we will continue to increase it because the needs are even greater,” Kosiniak-Kamysz said.

Poland urges NATO to accelerate defense spending

The Polish defense minister stressed that NATO allies must quickly reach 5% of GDP in defense spending.

“Within the next three to four years—by 2030—NATO countries should spend about 5%. We are talking 3.5% on ‘hard’ weapons and 1.5% on infrastructure,” he explained.

Poland’s security tied to Ukraine

Kosiniak-Kamysz made these statements during his visit to Kyiv on 18 September, where he met his counterpart, Denys Shmyhal.

“Poland’s security line runs along the front between Ukraine and Russia. I fully understand this, and for many who try to forget, it needs to be reminded,” the Polish defense minister added.

Joint UAV group to coordinate defense

Meanwhile, Poland and Ukraine are creating a joint operational group for unmanned aerial systems (UAVs), including representatives from both countries’ armed forces. The group will serve as a platform for coordinating and developing joint initiatives in UAV technology.

The Council of Europe is preparing the International Claims Commission for Ukraine. The draft Convention has been published. The new agency will serve as the second stage of the international mechanism to compensate for damages caused by Russian aggression, following the international Damage Registry. 

The Commission will review claims and assign compensation to war victims, with Russia expected to pay reparations at the third stage. The document was agreed upon in The Hague after eight rounds of negotiations over 18 months.

International Commission and damage registry

The Convention covers the period from 24 February 2022, but Ukraine may propose extending it to 2014–2021, Babel reports. In 2014, Russia annexed Ukraine’s Crimea, forcibly changing the borders of another country and violating the international order established since World War II. 

Key dates for the convention

• 22 October 2025 — Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe to review and approve the text.
• 16 December 2025 — Signing ceremony in The Hague.
• The Convention may enter into force as early as November 2026.

Start of commission work and compensation payments

On 1 January 2028, the transition from the Damage Registry to the Commission will begin, allowing Ukraine to continue seeking reparations from Russia and protecting the rights of its citizens at the international level.

Earlier, Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski said providing security guarantees for Ukraine remains unclear, as no state “is willing to wage a war against the Kremlin.” 

Sikorski recalled that Ukraine already had guarantees under the Budapest Memorandum, but they failed. The new arrangements, in his view, are also incapable of deterring Moscow. 

“I don’t see anyone willing to fight with Russia”: Sikorski explains why security guarantees for Ukraine may fail like Budapest Memorandum

Ukrainians over 60 now have the opportunity to voluntarily defend their country. The Ukrainian Parliament has passed a law allowing citizens over that age to join the military under a contract, which is entirely voluntary and without coercion, reports deputy Iryna Friz from the European Solidarity party.

“It’s important to understand that no compulsory mobilization is planned for this age group. This is purely a voluntary option for those who genuinely want to continue or start service after reaching the maximum age,” Friz explains. 

Citizens over 60 can serve under contract

The new law allows citizens over 60 who wish to serve to sign a contract with the approval of their commander and the General Staff.

Military-medical commission confirms health

A fitness assessment by a military medical commission is a mandatory requirement. Contracts are for one year, with a two-month probationary period and the possibility of extension.

Voluntary choice, not mobilization

Social media recently circulated rumors about mobilizing people over 60. The law clarifies that this is only a voluntary opportunity for those who have the health, strength, and willingness to serve.

Australia delivers a major blow to Russia’s oil profits. The country has slashed the price cap on Russian oil from $60 to $47.60 per barrel and imposed sanctions on 95 more vessels from Russia’s “shadow fleet.” The decision was coordinated with the EU, UK, Canada, New Zealand, and Japan.

The Australian Foreign Ministry has stated that lowering the oil price cap from $60 per barrel to $47.60 will reduce the market value of Russian crude and help deprive Russia’s war economy of revenue from raw materials.

The government also maintains a total ban on Russian oil and petroleum product imports. More than 150 ships have been sanctioned since June 2025.

Australia tightens grip on Russia’s “shadow fleet”

The latest measures target 95 tankers, with intelligence on 60 vessels provided to international partners by Ukraine’s sanctions group.

“Ukraine has also imposed national sanctions on the captains of 15 of these tankers,” Andrii Yermak, the head of the Ukrainian Presidential Office, reveals.

Ukraine welcomes Canberra’s support

Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha has thanked his Australian counterpart Penny Wong for the decision.

“Australia is helping to restrict Russia’s ability to fund its war and undermine global peace. We value our strong partnership with Australia and continue to stand together for shared values,” he said.

A united front to cut the Kremlin’s oil revenues

Australia’s sanctions are part of a wider Western strategy to reduce the Kremlin’s energy income. Partner governments believe that only sustained pressure on Russia’s oil sector can significantly weaken its capacity to fund the war against Ukraine.

As the war grinds on, Ukraine needs hundreds of billions of dollars. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that if the war continues into 2026, the country will lack $120 billion annually to finance defense and recovery. 

Half of this sum—$60 billion—comes from Ukraine’s budget, while another $60 billion must be secured from other sources, primarily Western partners.

The cost of war for Ukraine

“During the war, the cost of this conflict for one year amounts to $120 billion,” Zelenskyy stressed during a joint briefing with European Parliament President Roberta Metsola in Kyiv.

He added that Plan A is to end the war, while Plan B is to secure $120 billion in funding.

Daily expenses and reliance on partners

Earlier, Chief of the General Staff Andrii Hnatov noted that Ukraine spends about $172 million per day fighting Russia.

The country cannot sustain such costs with its own resources alone, making Western financial support critical, Novini.Live reports. 

Russia’s unwillingness to end the war

Despite phone calls from US President Donald Trump to Russian leader Vladimir Putin and his invitation to a summit in Alaska, Russia shows no intention of halting its aggression.

This underscores the need for Ukraine to secure stable and predictable funding for the coming year.

Previously, Reuters reported that Poland, under an EU program, will receive €43.7 billion to strengthen its defense capabilities within the Security Action for Europe initiative. At the same time, Ukraine is sometimes attacked by up to 700 drones in a single night.

Children living under constant threat are finally safe. Ukraine’s humanitarian program, Bring Kids Back UA, has evacuated 16 children from Russian-occupied territories.

They are now in Ukraine, receiving psychological support, restoring documents, and taking their first steps toward a peaceful life, according to Andrii Yermak, Head of the Presidential Office.

The program, initiated by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in 2023, aims to return all Ukrainian children abducted by Russia. To date, 19,546 children have been stolen.

Tragedies endured by the children

Among the rescued is a 15-year-old girl who escaped occupation with her aunt after her parents and older brother were sentenced on fabricated charges. Two sisters, aged 14 and 7, lost their home and belongings in a fire that completely destroyed their house.

Another 15-year-old girl stayed indoors for nearly three years, living in fear of the occupiers taking her children. A 10-year-old boy was targeted by the occupation’s “care service,” which tried to seize him from his parents.

Returning to safety and a new life

“All of them are now safe in Ukraine. Due to the Save Ukraine team and partners for helping rescue these children. We are fulfilling the President’s mission to bring all Ukrainian children home,” said Yermak.

Russian indoctrination in occupied areas

Earlier, the Ukrainian Center for Countering Disinformation reported that in Russian-occupied Donetsk, schools have been holding so-called “patriotism lessons” since autumn.

According to Denis Pushilin, the head of the occupation administration, Russian soldiers teach children about their “combat path,” instilling a war cult, erasing Ukrainian identity, and preparing them for future Kremlin military campaigns.

The Ukrainian partisan movement “ATESH” dealt a major blow to the Russian army’s rear lines. The underground group has carried out sabotage on a railway near Yekaterinburg, roughly 2,087 km from Ukraine, completely paralyzing the movement of trains along Russia’s strategic routes.

This hub supplied ammunition, armored vehicles, fuel, and personnel to the frontlines, factories, and depots in the north and east.

“Now, military depots are idle, dealing a blow to the Russian rear logistics,” says the group. 

Strikes at the heart of Russia’s war machine

“Our agent sabotaged the railway near Yekaterinburg by damaging relay equipment. This disrupted train traffic across all strategic directions,” the movement reports.  

Scope of destruction in the Ukrainian infrastructure

At the same time, Russia’s war against Ukraine has damaged or destroyed nearly 11,000 km of railway tracks and over 43 stations.

As of 2025, the direct infrastructure losses in Ukraine are estimated at around $170 billion, with transportation alone accounting for roughly $38.5 billion. 

Russia has suffered catastrophic losses and can no longer launch major offensives. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that after the summer offensive campaign, Russian forces no longer have the resources for large-scale attacks, UNIAN reports. 

Four Russian offensive directions

“Russia selected four main directions according to all documents and intelligence data. We only didn’t know the sequence, but it happened:

• The offensive in the Sumy direction
• the Novopavlivka operation,
• the Pokrovsk operation,
• the Zaporizhzhia direction,” Zelenskyy explains.

Failure in Sumy and heavy losses

Russian forces were defeated in the Sumy direction and had to redeploy to other fronts.

“They suffered heavy losses, primarily personnel. Today, they have abandoned this direction and shifted their resources and troops elsewhere. I believe they incurred even more losses there,” Zelenskyy says.

No more large-scale offensives

Thanks to the successful actions of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, Russian troops have lost enough personnel to prevent them from conducting major offensives.

“At this point, they do not have sufficient forces for mass operations,” Zelenskyy stresses, noting that details of the losses will be published in the coming days.

Ukrainian Nemesis operators destroyed three high-value Russian air defense systems in a month. The fighters, part of the Ukrainian Unmanned Systems Forces (SBS), reported on the successful operation via social media, emphasizing that innovative technologies were used to strike the targets. 

Destroyed systems and their value

“We burned three enemy air defense installations worth $80–90 million,” the statement reads. 

In August, the 412th Nemesis Regiment’s soldiers took down two Tor-M2 SAM systems, a Buk-M3 launcher, and the radar of a Buk-M2 system, which is known as “chupa-chups.” 

Tor-M2 and Buk: capabilities

Tor-M2 is a Russian short-range surface-to-air missile system designed to protect military and strategic targets from aircraft, helicopters, drones, cruise, and ballistic missiles.

Its engagement range is 12–15 km, altitude up to 10 km, and targets moving at speeds up to 1,000 m/s. The system carries 16 9M338K missiles and can simultaneously engage four targets out of over 40 detected.

The Buk is also a Russian medium-range SAM system capable of destroying aerodynamic aerial targets, tactical ballistic missiles, and cruise missiles.

Innovations and secret SBS technologies

“The enemy changes tactics, tries to stop us, hides but in vain. Our retaliation always reaches its target,” the defenders noted.

They added that the strike footage remains unpublished to protect their innovative solutions, but promised to release it in the future.

A Kenyan athlete ended up in Ukrainian captivity after fighting on behalf of Russia. Ukrainian soldiers from the 57th Separate Motorized Infantry Brigade captured Evans on the frontlines, where he had been serving with Russian occupiers in Kharkiv Oblast.

The athlete ended up in a Russian military camp under the guise of a “tourist trip” organized by his agent and funded by Russia, after which he was forced to sign documents in Russian and join the military.

When he realized what was happening, he tried to refuse but was threatened with execution. Nevertheless, Evans escaped and surrendered to Ukrainian forces.

How the athlete became a Russian soldier

“Evans is a track and field athlete from Kenya. His sports agent offered him and three other Kenyans a tourist trip to Saint Petersburg, funded by Russia,” reports the 57th Separate Motorized Infantry Brigade named after Kostyantyn Hordiyenko.

At the end of the trip, the person accompanying the group suggested that the foreigners stay in Russia and take up work.

“By signing papers in Russian, without understanding them, he unwittingly became a Russian soldier,” adds the brigade.

Harsh training and threats of execution

“Training lasted a week, during which the Kenyan was taught how to handle an automatic rifle. His commanders and instructors did not speak English, so they would often pull or push him to make him follow orders,” Ukrainian troops said.

Evans tried to refuse service but was told he would be executed if he did not comply.

Escape and captivity

“On the way to his first combat mission, Evans escaped. He spent two days wandering through forests near Vovchansk, searching for Ukrainian soldiers to surrender to,” said the 57th Brigade.

This is how the athlete ended up safe in Ukrainian hands, becoming a direct witness to the realities on the frontline.

Skeptical note from the brigade

However, the brigade remains cautious.

“Keep in mind, this is a person who fought on the side of the enemy, so whether to trust his words and tears is left to your discretion,” the brigade states. 

On 17 September, Kyiv ratified the century-long partnership agreement between Ukraine and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. The document was approved by 295 out of 397 Ukrainian deputies.

The agreement creates a new long-term framework

The agreement establishes a new long-term framework for bilateral cooperation in security, defense, economy, science, technology, and culture, opening new opportunities to strengthen the strategic partnership between the two countries.

Significant boost in military support

The document provides for annual military assistance from the UK to Ukraine of at least £3.6 billion until the 2030/31 financial year, and thereafter as needed.

This includes training Ukrainian troops, supporting pilots, supplying military aviation, developing joint defense production, and participating in joint expeditionary formats such as the Joint Expeditionary Force.

Framework nature and strategic significance

“Despite its grand title and good intentions, this agreement, unfortunately, does not provide security guarantees and is of a framework nature. Nevertheless, it is an important document aimed at strengthening strategic partnership with the UK,” said MP Iryna Herashchenko of the European Solidarity party.

New horizons of cooperation

Beyond the military sphere, the agreement opens prospects for scientific and technological projects, economic partnership, and cultural exchange, cementing Ukraine and the UK as strategic allies for decades to come.

The lifting of US sanctions on the Belarusian airline Belavia could become a new channel of support for Russian aviation. This would allow not only the repair of its own fleet of Boeing and Embraer aircraft but also the partial supply of spare parts to Russia, which has been suffering from a component shortage for several years, military expert Anatolii Khrapchynskyi explains, according to Ukrainske Radio. 

At the same time, there is still no official information on the lifting of sanctions, despite reports in Belarusian media; no such decisions have been published on the US Treasury website.

US sanctions: risks for aviation safety

If restrictions were fully lifted, Belarus would be able to actively acquire spare parts for its six Boeing aircraft and supply some components to Russian carriers.

“The key issue here is not so much the legal aspect as the importance of access to spare parts,” emphasized Khrapchynskyi.

Russia and Belarus searching for donor aircraft

“At this stage, Russia and Belarus are forced to buy broken aircraft all over the world in order to use them as donors. Even in Russian legislation, they tried to include the possibility of purchasing non-original spare parts for aircraft,” the expert noted.

According to him, it is also important to understand whether the potential lifting of sanctions will affect not only Belavia but also its maintenance company, Belavia Technics, which could obtain a certificate to service aircraft.

European restrictions and possible loopholes for Russia

Despite a potential US decision, European sanctions remain in force. They prohibit Belavia from flying to Europe and from servicing Western Boeing aircraft.

“If the sanctions are lifted, where will Belavia actually be able to fly? If this is only about spare parts, won’t it simply become a gateway for the Russian fleet to acquire components? And how will the world react to this — will it turn a blind eye, or will someone monitor it?” Khrapchynskyi said.

He added that a possible partial lifting of sanctions could include restrictions: spare parts would be issued only for Belavia’s six aircraft to prevent mass deliveries to Russia.

Poland has begun discussing with the allies the possibility of intercepting Russian drones and missiles while they are still over Ukrainian territory. According to Defense Express analysts, this is technically possible, but it raises a number of complex issues, including avoiding friendly fire.

The idea of intercepting Russian drones and missiles over Ukraine first emerged in 2022, in response to calls to “close the skies.”

Politically, the chances of a massive agreement among all NATO or EU members remain low. More realistic are limited missions by individual countries, such as the UK, France, and Germany.

Idea and background

Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski stated that the West should consider intercepting Russian drones and missiles in Ukraine’s airspace. He emphasized that Poland cannot make this decision alone; it must be coordinated with allies.

Analysts note that the final decision is primarily political, and the chances of alliance-wide approval are low. However, initiatives by a limited number of countries are much more likely to be implemented.

Technical possibilities

If ground-based air defense systems and placing fighters at Ukrainian airfields are excluded, the most realistic scenario is air patrols from NATO’s eastern flank bases.

This would involve F-16s, F-35s, Rafales, and Eurofighters stationed at Polish or other border airbases, conducting patrol flights within effective range. Existing deployments show few logistical obstacles: in August, German Eurofighters were based at the 23rd Air Base near Warsaw. From there, fighters could reach Volyn Oblast in Ukraine, bordering Poland, in approximately 15 minutes without afterburners.

Key technical parameters include:

• Effective patrol range
• Flight duration
• Long-range radar detection (AWACS)
• Patrol time, up to several hours, depending on aircraft type and flight profile, determining which areas over Ukraine can be covered.

Main challenge: avoiding friendly fire

The key issue is coordination between partners and the Ukrainian side. A practical solution could be the creation of a conditional “no-fly, no-AAA” zone for Ukrainian forces, within which only allied fighters would operate.

This approach reduces the risk of friendly fire but significantly limits patrol areas. Analysts emphasize that real interception zones will be localized, mostly covering Ukraine’s border regions.

The US and EU continue to buy Russian energy and goods despite the war in Ukraine. In the fourth year of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the US and the EU continue to import oil, gas, metals, and fertilizers from Russia. The total trade volume is estimated in the billions of euros, Reuters reports. 

After sanctions were imposed as the Kremlin attacked Ukraine, EU exports to Russia fell by 61%, and imports from Russia dropped by 89% from Q1 2022 to Q2 2025. At the same time, in Q2 2025, EU exports to Russia increased slightly while imports decreased, resulting in a trade surplus of €0.8 billion.

Oil: Positive dynamic is seen, but it still brings millions to Russia

Four years ago, Russia was the largest oil supplier to the EU. The ban on maritime imports of crude oil reduced its share from 28.74% in 2021 to 2.01% in 2025. In Q2 2025, Russian oil accounted for only 2% of total EU imports.

Gas is reaching Hungary and Bulgaria 

Russia’s share of the EU’s natural gas imports fell to 12% in Q2 2025, down from 48% in 2021. Algeria is now the largest supplier (27%), while Norway increased its share by 10%. Nevertheless, Russian gas still reaches some countries, including Hungary and Bulgaria, via the Turkish Stream.

Imports of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Russia fell to 14% in Q2 2025, down from 22% in 2021. The largest LNG supplier to the EU in 2025 was the US (54%).

Metals and fertilizers 

Russia’s share in the EU’s iron and steel imports decreased from 18% in 2021 to 6% in Q2 2025.

However, Russia remains the largest supplier of fertilizers to the EU, with its share increasing from 28% to 34% over four years.

US imports from Russia bring Moscow billions for the killing of Ukrainian women and children 

US imports from Russia totaled $2.50 billion in the first half of 2025, down from $14.14 billion four years ago. Overall, since January 2022, the US has imported $24.51 billion worth of Russian goods.

Last year, the US imported $1.27 billion in Russian fertilizers (compared to $1.14 billion in 2021), enriched uranium and plutonium worth $624 million (down from $646 million in 2021), and palladium worth $878 million (down from $1.59 billion in 2021).

Nizhyn suffers the largest Russian attack since the start of the war. Oleksandr Kodola, the mayor of the city in Chernihiv Oblast, which has a population of 73,000, reported that on 14–15 September, the city endured more than 16 hours of continuous air alerts. 

Russia launched dozens of drones against Nizhyn, striking critical infrastructure, both attack and reconnaissance. 

Double strike on an oil depot

According to the mayor, one of the drones crashed in the city center. Later, the enemy targeted a private oil depot, Suspilne reports. 

“There was a strike on a large oil depot. More than 20 units of equipment were deployed to extinguish the fire. One rescuer was poisoned, and during the repeated strike in the evening three more rescuers were injured,” Kodola said.

The attacks destroyed significant property at the facility, while the city experienced disruptions in electricity and water supply.

Infrastructure damaged

Several districts of Nizhyn were left without power, with one street completely cut off from electricity.

Chernihiv Oblast under daily fire

In general, over the past day, the Russian army carried out 42 strikes on Chernihiv Oblast, hitting 20 settlements.

Western promises to defend Ukraine in the event of a new Russian attack lack real strength. Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski said that no one is willing to wage a war against the Kremlin, which makes the guarantees unconvincing, according to Europeiska Pravda. 

Sikorski recalled that Ukraine already had guarantees under the Budapest Memorandum, but they failed. The new arrangements, in his view, are also incapable of deterring Moscow. 

“If we provide security guarantees to Ukraine, it means we may start a war against Russia. Whoever wants to fight – can start now. But I don’t see anyone willing,” said the Polish foreign minister. 

The danger of “empty promises”

The head of Poland’s Foreign Ministry stressed that worse than having no guarantees is offering ones nobody trusts. He urged to acknowledge honestly that the current talks are more about “monitoring peace and strengthening Ukraine” than about true guarantees.

Aid more important than declarations

According to Sikorski, politicians should focus on military support and financing for Ukraine in 2026–2027, rather than declarative documents that demobilize allies.

Kyiv’s position

Earlier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy outlined three key blocks of security guarantees effective for his country: 

• Maintaining the current size of the Ukrainian army.
• Support from NATO partners at the leadership level in case of new aggression.
• Sanctions pressure on Russia and the use of frozen Russian assets for Ukraine’s recovery.

Poland fights a pro-Kremlin disinformation wave, PAP reports. Pro-Russian sentiments are rising in Poland, and the responsibility of politicians is to stop them, Prime Minister Donald Tusk said after Russian drone attacks on the country.

A wave created by the Kremlin

“A wave of pro-Russian sentiment and anti-Ukrainian feeling is rising, created by the Kremlin using real fears and emotions,” Tusk wrote on X on Sunday, 14 September.

He emphasized that the task of politicians is to stop this wave before it affects society.

As expected, the attack caused strong fear and insecurity among Polish citizens. The country hosts points through which foreign weapons are delivered to Ukraine, heightening concerns.

These sentiments are actively supported by some Polish right-wing politicians and media, which build campaigns on anti-criminal emotions while ignoring the significant contributions of Ukrainians to Poland’s economy and society.

The Kremlin deliberately spreads disinformation and provokes confrontation between Poland and Ukraine to weaken Western support for Ukraine.

Ukrainians’ contribution to Poland

In 2024, the Ukrainians in Poland contributed about 2.7% of the country’s GDP, over 99 billion zlotys, which is nearly $20 billion . They established more than 77,700 private enterprises between 2022–2024, accounting for about 12% of all new businesses in the country during that period.

Poland is fully aware of the attack

Earlier, Tusk assured that Polish services and the military know who is responsible for the drone attack.

“We will not be sensitive to manipulation and disinformation from Russia. Poland is confident about the sources, launch location, and intent of this action,” the Polish prime minister added.

Call for caution

The head of government urged Poles to rely only on verified information from official sources, including the military, services, and state media, to avoid panic and fake news.

Moscow bares its teeth on the NATO border, Defense Express reports. In the Belarusian city of Grodno, near the Gozhsky training ground, a new Russian BTR-22 armored personnel carrier was spotted. It is involved in the joint Russia-Belarus exercises Zapad-2025. 

Deliberate “leak” of photos

According to the experts, the vehicle’s geolocation on Kirova Street was identified by the Telegram channel Military Journal. They suggest the BTR-22 photo may have been deliberately released by Russia, signaling strength to Poland, alongside related events:

• incursions of Russian Gerbera drones into Polish airspace;
• deployment of two Iskander missile launchers in Kaliningrad Oblast. 

“Budget Boomerang”

The BTR-22 was first unveiled at the Army-2023 forum. Its unofficial nickname is “Budget Boomerang”, as it is a simplified modification of the BTR-82A. Even Russian sources admitted the vehicle lags 20 years behind modern standards, making it essentially a failed attempt to “reimagine” the old BTR-87 design.

Belarusian contrast

Experts note that in 2025, Belarus finally adopted its own Volat V-2 APC after a 15-year delay. The Russian BTR-22’s appearance in Belarus is seen more as a political propaganda signal than a real enhancement of allied combat capabilities.

Ukrainian special operations disrupt Russian supply lines right on their own routes. Partisans from the Atesh movement have successfully carried out a sabotage operation on the railway in the Adyge-Khabl District of the Karachay-Cherkess Republic, which is about 520-530 kilometers from Ukraine. 

As a result, a relay cabinet was set on fire between the Sadovy and Erken-Shakhar stations, near the Sadovoe settlement.

Halting ammunition supplies

This railway branch transports ammunition and military equipment from North Caucasus industrial centers to the Rostov Oblast and from there to the front in Ukraine. The sabotage disrupted train traffic, delaying the delivery of MLRS munitions, tube artillery, repaired equipment, and rotating personnel.

Chain reaction on the front

Every strike creates a domino effect: troops in occupied territories receive fewer shells, replenishments and repairs are delayed, and Ukrainian units gain a tactical advantage on the battlefield.

Russia asks Turkiye to return S-400 systems amid battlefield losses and effective Ukrainian drone strikes, Nefes reports. 

Moscow seeks to replenish its air defense stock

According to media reports, Russia approached Turkiye with a proposal to return two S-400 systems, purchased by Ankara in 2017 for $2.5 billion and delivered in 2019.

The reason — a shortage of equipment in Russian stockpiles after battlefield losses, where Ukrainian forces actively destroy Russian air defense systems, including S-400s.

Turkiye is considering the proposal

Turkish outlet Nefes reports that Ankara views the proposal “positively”, but has not officially confirmed readiness to finalize a deal. The S-400 systems are not integrated with NATO, their missiles are already halfway through their service life, and the equipment requires maintenance, creating additional costs for Turkiye.

Impact on international deliveries and allies

Due to the S-400 shortage, Russia is postponing delivery of similar systems to India until 2026–2027. Demand for such systems from third countries is rising, strengthening the Kremlin’s urgency to get the S-400s back from Turkiye as soon as possible.

Russian developers on the brink of collapse: 1 in 5 companies already in the critical zone as the government directs all the support to the war against Ukraine, Ukraine’s Foreign Intelligence Service has reported. 

Around 20% of developers in Russia are facing bankruptcy due to falling sales and high mortgage rates.

The most vulnerable are mass housing companies, which rely heavily on mortgage demand. Over 19% of developers are officially delaying project completions, and delays exceeding six months push them into the “problematic” category.

Impact of the economy and the war

The sector suffers from low demand, limited government support, and resource diversion to the war in Ukraine. This results in declining sales, rising debt burdens, and construction freezes.

Investments in real estate in the first half of 2025 fell by 44%. Banks reject half of mortgage applications, while effective interest rates reach at least 25% per year, even for reliable borrowers.

Corporate sector and potential solutions

In the corporate segment, the share of troubled loans rose to 10.4% ($111.9 billion), with $8.6 billion added in three months. The real estate sector saw the greatest deterioration. Russian authorities are already considering moratoriums on developer bankruptcies, external restructuring, and the creation of temporary state funds to complete problematic projects.

Ukrainian forces destroy occupiers in their underground lairs. The 34th Separate Motorized Infantry Battalion “Wolfhounds” has demonstrated how the Ukrainian Armed Forces throw anti-tank mines into basements and underground tunnels where Russian occupiers are hiding.

Anti-tank mines directly into shelters

The conditions faced by Ukrainian infantry in Vovchansk go beyond human endurance. Enemy positions are just meters away, above ground, no buildings remain intact, and beneath the layers of concrete and asphalt, the occupiers’ fortifications and tunnels lie hidden.

“To flush out the enemy or destroy fortifications, we have to manually throw explosives into their lairs,” say the soldiers.

Underground networks do not save the enemy

Russian forces use basements, sewer pipes, and reinforced tunnels to move personnel. The same tactics were used by the occupiers in Sudzha, Kursk Oblast.

The operation involved underground pipes of the Urengoy–Pomary–Uzhhorod gas pipeline, which Russia used to supply gas to Europe via Ukraine until 1 January 2025. Each pipeline section had a diameter of 1.4 meters. 

Hollywood couldn’t stage this: one Ukrainian T-64 plowing through three Russian T-72s and surviving. From Soviet tanks turned against their former masters to American Abrams and German Leopards, Ukraine’s armored forces have rewritten battlefield rules. These are the stories of skilled operators like “Adam” and “Song” who break encirclements, save thousands of comrades, and turn desperate defenses into victories.

1. “Adam”: the tank operator whose T-64 withstood three Russian T-72s

A Ukrainian T-64 against three Russian T-72s — and victory stayed with the Ukrainians. This was the battle of Yevhen Mezhevikyn, call sign “Adam”, in the fall of 2014 during the defense of Donetsk Airport, Army Inform reports. His tank didn’t just stop the enemy advance — it pushed through fire to reach the terminals, where the Ukrainian “cyborgs” held out for months without water or heat.

At that time, the Ukrainian army was only beginning to recover after the collapse of the 1990s and early 2000s: outdated equipment, minimal supplies, and almost no combat experience.

But due to operators like “Adam”, the army held the airport and endured.

Mezhevikyn not only destroyed enemy vehicles, but they also trained fellow operators on the frontline, repaired damaged tanks, and led the riskiest breakthroughs.

When Russia launched a full-scale invasion in 2022, “Adam” formed a tactical group. With volunteers and repaired tanks, they immediately went into battle near Kyiv and then fought near Kharkiv, Zaporizhzhia, and Bakhmut. For this path, from “cyborg” to commander of a legendary group, Mezhevikyn became the first tank operator awarded the Order of the “Golden Star” Hero of Ukraine. Mezhevikyn now serves on the General Staff.

2. “Captured tank against a column”: one operator against a Russian column

A single Ukrainian tank faced an entire Russian column. In August 2014, during the battle for Ilovaisk, Colonel Yevhen Sydorenko took a captured T-72B into combat and stopped the enemy advance. Cases like this are rare in military history, mostly seen in World War II.

Ukrainian forces were outmatched: surrounded by regular Russian troops, with minimal equipment and ammunition, against full battalion groups. Despite the odds, they fought on and prepared for a breakout.

On 29 August, after repelling an attack, the column moved to break out of encirclement. Sydorenko’s tank led the movement, covering retreating comrades.

For this action, Yevhen Sydorenko was awarded Hero of Ukraine. Their feat became a symbol of self-sacrifice, showing how one tank can change the course of a battle.

3. “Song”: three tanks breaking encirclement, thousands saved

In the early days of the full-scale invasion, 23-year-old platoon commander Yevhen Palchenko, call sign “Song”, defended his brigade’s escape from encirclement near Kherson, risking their life.

Breaking through the Russian ring, their three tanks held positions near the Antonivsky Bridge, allowing comrades to escape. About 2,000 Ukrainian soldiers and their equipment were saved. On 2 March 2022, Lieutenant Yevhen Palchenko was awarded Hero of Ukraine for this heroic action. Their story shows how the courage of a single tank operator can save an entire brigade.

4. “Company under fire”: one tank against two dozen enemy vehicles, and it survived

One tank against two dozen enemy vehicles, and the crew survived. Captain Serhii Ponomarenko’s company was thrown into combat just hours after arriving near Barvinkove on 12 March 2022. Since then, the 3rd Separate Tank Brigade of the Ukrainian Ground Forces has been continuously defending Kharkiv Oblast.

During an assault on Topolske near Izium, six Ukrainian tanks engaged more than twenty Russian vehicles. Due to skill and training, nine enemy tanks were destroyed. One Ukrainian T-72 took multiple hits, and Ponomarenko risked their tank to save the operators, as per Facty. 

“The T-64 has an excellent fire control system, with a ballistic calculator measuring wind and direction and automatically adjusting. The sight has a zoom for precision. The T-64 works like a sniper rifle of a large caliber. The T-72’s sight is poor,” Ponomarenko explains.

However, the T-72 engine starts more easily in the cold, but the T-64’s acceleration is comparable despite needing preheating. The T-72 may be faster, but the T-64 holds its own in maneuvering.

The operators supported their commander, suppressed enemy positions, and recovered the damaged tank under fire. On 2 April 2022, Serhii Ponomarenko was awarded Hero of Ukraine with the Order of the “Golden Star”.

5. “Phoenix on the battlefield”: T-64 crew rises twice from the dead

A mine exploded, but the operators kept fighting, destroying an enemy mortar team. Sergeant Vitaly Shevchenko, gunner Andrii Mukhin, and mechanic-gunner Maksym Kravchuk survived two near-fatal attacks near Sloviansk — first from a mine, then from an anti-tank guided missile. Twice, like a mythical Phoenix, they rose from the flames to continue the fight, according to Uriadovyi Kurier.

From the first day of the war, this crew has been on the frontline, performing missions in the toughest zones. Their tank became a guardian for infantry, its gun a deadly weapon against enemies. During one attack, additional fuel tanks exploded, yet the operators advanced, breached a concrete barrier, and destroyed enemy mortar positions. The commander personally extinguished flames, protecting the crew. After minor repairs, the tank returned to combat.

6. “Ramming for comrades”: a young tank operator against a T-72

One tank against a T-72 to save comrades. On 12 August 2014, tank operator Artem Abramovich, 24, rammed a Russian T-72 near Stepanivka, covering the retreat of Ukrainian soldiers. The enemy tank was destroyed, but Artem died in battle. Their heroism became a symbol of self-sacrifice. Posthumously, on 13 August 2015, they were awarded the Order of Bohdan Khmelnytsky III class.

7. American hardware in Ukrainian hands

BMP Bradleys, in coordination with Abrams tanks, became a formidable battlefield force.

During operations near Novoivanivka in the Kursk Oblast, operators of the 47th Mechanized Brigade showcased extraordinary skill.

They rotated personnel, provided fire support, and destroyed enemy forces hiding in buildings. Every shot and maneuver was precise, and every decision was life-or-death.

“American hardware is decisive on the battlefield, but without skilled operators, it’s nothing,” the brigade noted.

The operation decimated Russian forces, halted the invasion of Sumy Oblast, and showed that Ukrainian forces could take the fight into enemy territory.

8. “He lost a leg but saved the tank”

The driver of a Leopard from the 33rd Brigade saved lives despite losing a leg in combat. Known as “Hor,” a former bartender, his comrade recounts the moment as a defining act of courage. Mobilized in March 2022, they began on a T-72, fought in counteroffensives, and then retrained on the Leopard.

Near Mala Tokmachka, Russian helicopters fired missiles. Their mechanic lost a leg. Despite this, they drove the tank out of combat, saving the entire crew. Later, near Kurakhove, their crew fired 49 rounds, destroying two tanks, two BMPs, one BTR, and three Russian positions.

Kyiv extends a helping hand to Poland. Ukraine has offered Warsaw the necessary assistance in countering Russian drones, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says.

The attack occurred just as Western leaders, including the US, continue working on security guarantees for Ukraine, aimed at protecting the country from Russian strikes, including drone attacks.

Ukraine without modern aviation — but with results

Ukraine does not possess modern fighter jets, yet during the same time frame, it managed to shoot down 380 out of 415 drones launched by Russia.

The question remains: how to force Russia to end the war against Ukraine and stop attacking NATO countries?

“No one can guarantee that there won’t be hundreds of drones if there are already dozens. Only joint European forces can provide real protection. We are ready to help with technology, crew training, and the necessary intelligence,” Zelenskyy stressed.

Dangerous “Zapad-2025” drills

According to Zelenskyy, joint Russian-Belarusian exercises “Zapad-2025” have begun on Belarusian territory, and the attack on Poland may be part of this training scenario.

The program of the drills reportedly includes a rehearsal of an attack on Poland and even the simulation of a nuclear strike.

Despite the attack on a NATO member state, US President Donald Trump did not announce any new sanctions against Moscow or present a clear plan to counter Russia.

“Unfortunately, as of now, Russia has not received a tough response from global leaders to what it is doing,” Zelenskyy said.

According to him, with this attack, Russia is testing the limits of what is possible and probing the West’s reaction.

“They are recording how NATO armed forces act, what they can do and what they cannot do yet,” the Ukrainian president added.

Kyiv warned Poland about the Russian drone threat before the attack occurred. On the night of 10 September, nearly two dozen Russian drones may have entered Polish airspace, although this figure is not final, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.

This incident marked the first time since Russian drones massively violated the territory of a NATO member state and prompted the country to down them with strategic aviation. 

“Ukrainian forces informed the Polish side through the appropriate channels about the movement of Russian drones. Around 00:50 Kyiv time, the first crossing of the Ukrainian-Polish border by a Russian drone was recorded,” the Ukrainian president noted.

At least two drones that entered Poland used Belarusian airspace. Meanwhile, dozens of other drones moved along the Ukraine-Belarus border and in western regions of Ukraine, approaching Ukrainian and potentially Polish targets.

Ukrainian air defenses in action

Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukrainian defenders destroyed more than 380 Russian drones of various types, including at least 250 Shaheds.

“The number of Russian drones that crossed into Polish territory and penetrated deeply may be higher than previously reported. We are checking,” the Ukrainian president said. 

Ukrainian forces continue to analyze debris to clarify drone types. The president stressed that only joint and coordinated action with allies can ensure reliable airspace protection.

NATO and regional security

Meanwhile, the Russian Ministry of Defense denied involvement in the attack.

The incident prompted Poland to appeal to NATO, which activated Article 4 of the North Atlantic Treaty. This allows consultations regarding threats to territorial integrity and security, but does not automatically trigger a military response as Article 5 does. Polish F-16s and F-35s were scrambled to intercept drones, though most threats were neutralized by Ukrainian air defenses.

The attack happened in the midst of discussions by European and American allies on security guarantees for Ukraine. 

Intelligence insights

Joint Russian-Belarusian military exercises, “Zapad-2025,” are currently underway in Belarus, with the active phase planned for 12–16 September. During these exercises, scenarios include simulated attacks on Poland and nuclear weapons deployment, UkrInform reports. 

Kyrylo Budanov, the head of Ukraine’s Main Intelligence Directorate, stated that the active phase will involve serious information pressure, accompanied by staged leaks and information provocations.

Russia drowns in anxiety – medications are being sold like hotcakes. Since the beginning of 2025, antidepressant sales in Russia have surged amid the war against Ukraine and ongoing economic problems, according to Ukraine’s Foreign Intelligence Service.

From January to July, pharmacy chains sold 12.9 million packs of such medications worth $118 million, a 36% increase in monetary terms compared to the previous year.

Sales of anxiolytics, which reduce anxiety, rose 10% in the first half of the year, exceeding 9.3 million packs.

Doctors report an increase in patients experiencing symptoms of depression, panic attacks, insomnia, and drug dependence.

Pressure from electronic draft notices and social anxiety

The rise in demand for psychiatric drugs coincides with a large-scale campaign to create a register of military conscripts.

Since July, Russians have been receiving mass notifications about being added to the database, including female medical workers, teenagers, and people with limited fitness.

The Russian parliament emphasizes that the rollout of electronic draft notices does not signify the start of mobilization, but these messages have become a key driver of societal anxiety.

Earlier, Euromaidan Press reported that the Kremlin seeks to avoid repeating the social upheavals that followed the Soviet war in Afghanistan and is attempting to control demobilisation from Ukraine’s war. 

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. 

Moscow denies targeting Poland after drones enter NATO airspace. The Russian Ministry of Defense stated that no targets on Polish territory were intended, responding to reports of 19 Russian drones violating Poland’s airspace on 10 September for approximately six hours.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has described the incident as an “unprecedented moment” for both the country and the Alliance, marking the first massive attack on NATO territory.

Massive strike on Ukraine

The Russian Ministry of Defense has confirmed it launched a massive strike on Ukraine “with high-precision long-range weapons from land, sea, and air, as well as with strike drones.”

They are targeting defense-industrial enterprises in Ukraine in Ivano-Frankivsk, Khmelnytskyi, Zhytomyr oblasts, as well as in Vinnytsia and Lviv.

“These facilities were producing and repairing armored and aviation equipment for the Armed Forces of Ukraine, engines, electronic components, and long-range drones,” said the Russian Defense Ministry.

It added that in Lviv, workshops at the Lviv Armored Plant and Lviv Aircraft Plant were hit, “where armored vehicles were repaired and modernized and long-range UAVs and combat aircraft were maintained.”

Earlier, Kremlin Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov commented the attack on Poland by saying that “We do not wish to in any way comment on this. It is outside our competence,” referring to the Ministry of Defense.

He added that the EU and NATO “accuse Russia of provocations daily,” and that Western institutions “lack evidence to support their accusations.”

Belarus claims drones merely “lost their way”

Meanwhile, the Belarusian Ministry of Defense claimed the Russian drones attacking Poland had “lost their way.”

Belarus reportedly alerted Poland about drone movements in its airspace. First Deputy Defense Minister Pavel Muraveiko told The Moscow Times that some of the “lost” drones were destroyed by Belarusian air defenses over its territory.

Muraveiko explained that Belarusian forces “exchanged information on aerial and radar activity” with Poland and Lithuania during the night of 10 September, allowing Polish forces to respond quickly by scrambling jets.

He added that drones from both Russia and Ukraine had been monitored as some lost course due to electronic warfare measures.

Russia, Belarus to rehearse attack on Poland and nuclear strike during Zapad-2025 drills

Ukraine’s response

Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said Ukraine’s and its partners’ air defense systems can and must operate together to intercept Russian missiles and drones.

Sybiha emphasized that Ukraine is ready to provide expertise, experience, technology, and other forms of assistance to ensure reliable security and an effective response to Russian threats.

“Together, we will not allow Russian missiles and drones to fly further into Europe,” he added, calling for rapid and decisive action to send Moscow a clear signal of unity and strength.

Russia’s attack on Poland, during which drones violated the country’s airspace for several hours, shocked not only Warsaw but also NATO neighbors. Slovak President Peter Pellegrini has openly admitted his country is now “defenseless” against such a threat, Polsat News reports.

Warning from Tokyo

Pellegrini made the statement during his visit to Japan. He stressed that Slovakia lags far behind in building a modern air defense system, leaving the country vulnerable, Teraz reports. 

“We are defenseless today. If a similar situation happened in Slovakia, people would only have to hope that drones don’t fall on residential houses,” he said. 

The president acknowledged that Slovakia lacks effective response capabilities. Even a technical malfunction or course deviation could cause drones or missiles to crash on Slovak territory.

“We cannot immediately react in case of a violation of our airspace, as it happened in Poland,” he added.

A warning finger for all allies

The head of state called the incident in Poland “an important warning and a raised finger” for all NATO countries. He argued that Slovakia must urgently build its air defense system and integrate it into Europe’s security architecture.

Slovak government reaction

Foreign Minister Juraj Blanár described the Russian drone intrusion into Poland as an escalation of the conflict. He confirmed solidarity with Warsaw and backed its decision to initiate NATO consultations under Article 4.

At the same time, Blanár called for diplomacy, expressing hope that peace talks launched by US President Donald Trump could bring an end to Russia’s war against Ukraine.

“I want to believe that the drones that entered Poland were not meant to attack it, but were only supposed to land in Ukraine,” he said.

Interior Minister Matúš Šutaj Eštok reacted more cautiously, recalling that in the past, a similar case with a “Russian missile” in Poland turned out to be a Ukrainian mistake.

Massive attack on Ukraine

The Polish incident was part of Russia’s large-scale strike on the night of 10–11 September. Moscow launched 415 drones and more than 40 cruise and ballistic missiles at Ukraine. Most of the drones were downed by air defense, but one person was killed.

In Poland, the attack lasted for six hours. Prime Minister Donald Tusk reported that 19 drones were used, some launched from Belarus. Polish forces managed to shoot down only three to four drones, while the rest crashed on Polish soil.

NATO’s response

Polish government Spokesperson Adam Szłapka has confirmed that NATO had activated Article 4. Consultations among allies have already taken place.

While Article 4 does not mandate an automatic military response like Article 5, it allows member states to consider additional security measures, including troop deployments and reinforcement of air defense systems.

For Russia, this incident was a way to test NATO’s resolve. For Poland’s neighbors, it was a painful reminder that the war against Ukraine directly threatens their own security.

Past events 

Earlier, a poll revealed that 14% of Slovaks surveyed openly want to join Russia, and another 18% consider this possibility.

The idea is most supported by students and the unemployed, which, according to experts, rather reflects economic instability and disappointment with the country’s Western course than genuine loyalty to the Kremlin.

In the night of 10 September, Russia’s massive attack on Ukraine spilled beyond Ukrainian skies. According to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, nearly Russian enemy drones may have entered Polish airspace. This unprecedented incident forced Warsaw to call on NATO allies and activate Article 4 of the North Atlantic Treaty.

Polish confirmation

Prime Minister Donald Tusk has confirmed that Russia used 19 drones in an attack lasting six hours, calling it a serious test of Poland’s defense, Suspilne reports. F-16 and F-35 fighter jets were scrambled, but only 3–4 drones were intercepted, while the rest fell on Polish territory.

Possible reconnaissance of Polish air defenses

Defense Express experts, analyzing debris, have suggested the drones could have been Russian “Gerbera” models, primitive foam UAVs that can carry reconnaissance equipment or small explosive payloads of up to 5 kg. While often used as decoys, this time they may have served another purpose.

The drones were spotted over multiple regions: north of Lublin, near Stalowa Wola with its defense industries, west of Białystok, and even close to Łódź.

Analysts note that their flight paths coincided with key Polish air defense sites, including long-range radar posts in Roskosz (NUR-12M), Labunie (RAT-31DL), and Szypłiszki near the strategic Suwałki Gap, NATO’s link between the Baltic states, the rest of the Alliance, and Russia’s Kaliningrad Oblast. 

Experts warn the strike may have been a reconnaissance mission, probing Poland’s air defense ahead of possible future scenarios.

Ukraine’s response

Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stresses that such incidents prove no European country is safe without joint action. 

“Ukraine is ready to expand cooperation with partners for reliable air defense. Not only information-sharing, but real joint actions in the sky must guarantee the security of neighbors. Russia must feel that Europeans know how to defend themselves,” he claims. 

NATO moves

Polish government spokesman Adam Szłapka told Polsat News that Warsaw officially invoked Article 4, and allies agreed to activate it.

Article 4 provides for urgent consultations when the territorial integrity, political independence, or security of a member state is threatened. Unlike Article 5, it does not trigger automatic military action, but it opens the way for reinforced defense measures, troop deployments, and new security guarantees.

A symbolic signal

For Moscow, this attack could be a test of the West’s reaction. For NATO, it is another reminder that Russia’s war against Ukraine directly threatens European allies.

Threat to the Alliance 

The attack on Poland is an unmistakable threat to NATO. At the same time, US President Donald Trump has so far made no public comments or official statements regarding Russia’s drone incursion into Polish airspace. Moreover, he has not yet implemented new sanctions on Moscow in response to its attacks on the top governmental building in Kyiv, as he previousely claimed. 

Promises in Kyiv, rejection in Berlin. The German CDU and SPD factions have voted against the Green Party’s initiative to allocate an additional €4.5 billion this year to strengthen Ukraine’s air defenses and compensate for the suspended US aid, BILD reports. 

A visit to Kyiv – and a refusal in Berlin

Last week, German CDU and SPD leaders Jens Spahn and Matthias Miersch visited Kyiv, where they met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and called the trip “a sign of support.” But back in the budget committee, their factions voted together with the Left Party and AfD against releasing the funds.

German politicians’ arguments

Social Democrat Andreas Schwarz has explained that the proposed billions “could not be spent before the end of the year.”

CDU representative Christian Haase claimed that Berlin had already “delivered everything Ukraine needs” and that he was “unaware” of additional requirements from Kyiv.

This contradicts Zelenskyy’s statement in July, where he stressed that Ukraine needed another €6 billion by year’s end to fully scale production of long-range weapons and FPV drones.

Sharp reaction from the Greens

The decision by governing partners drew outrage within the Greens.

“It is hypocrisy — to promise help in Kyiv on Monday and then on Thursday vote together with the AfD and the Left against further support for a country suffering heavy attacks day and night,” said the party’s budget expert, Sebastian Schäfer.

The Donald Trump-Vladimir Putin’s summit has strengthened the Russian dictator. The meeting between the US and Russian presidents in Alaska only bolstered the Kremlin’s position and prolonged the war in Ukraine, Foreign Affairs reports. 

Since Russia’s first invasion of Ukraine in 2014, which altered the world order by forcibly changing the borders of a sovereign country, Putin has played the long game. The Alaska summit gave him even more time and strengthened his position to achieve a military victory in a war of attrition against Ukraine.

The summit was never about peace in Ukraine

Its real purpose was to bend the international system to Moscow’s will and maintain a monopoly on power domestically.

Putin emerged victorious in Alaska

Putin has faced little opposition to the Alaska visit. A Russian Levada Center survey showed that 79% of Russians considered the summit a success for Putin, and 51% were more optimistic about improved relations with the US.

“After the summit, Russian media did not have to put out false pronouncements to highlight Putin’s diplomatic triumph,” the report says. 

Legitimizing aggression against Ukraine

The summit allowed Putin to legitimize Moscow’s claims. Russians who doubted the war’s purpose now had grounds to consider the invasion “just.”

During the Anchorage meeting, the dictator emphasized Russia’s “legitimate concerns,” its pursuit of a “fair security balance in Europe and the world,” and the need to “remove all root causes” of the war in Ukraine.

Trump did not refute any claims, effectively agreeing with Putin’s position on Moscow’s right to influence Ukraine’s territorial integrity and Western security guarantees.

“Putin flew home having demonstrated to his subjects that he was right all along, that they must not waver, and that he will win for them,” the report concludes. 

Ukrainian forces are striking targets in the occupied territories of Donetsk Oblast to halt Russian preparation for an autumn counteroffensive, says Oleksii Hetman, Radio NV reports. 

Ukrainian attacks lay the groundwork for an advance

“The Russians are planning very powerful attacks, so they are pulling in troops and redeploying,” explains Hetman. 

That’s why Ukraine must destroy and weaken them as much as possible, and prepare for its own offensive actions. 

A variety of Ukrainian weapons

Hetman believes that it is difficult to say exactly which weapons were used in the strikes, but that is not critical.

“We have a large arsenal of missiles: ‘Palyanytsya,’ ‘Peklo,’ ‘Trembita,’ ‘Flamingo.’ What exactly hit doesn’t make much difference. We carefully plan attacks and don’t use high-powered missiles where smaller ones are sufficient,” he says.

Precision strike strategy

According to the expert, every attack is carefully calculated. Ukraine employs its weapons based on the strategic importance of each target: more powerful missiles are used only where maximum effect is needed.

These actions drain the Russian military and set the conditions for future offensive operations.

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. 

Tensions have flared between Moscow and its key ally, the one that has given unprecedented support in the killing of Ukrainians. During the Iran–Israel war in June 2025, the Kremlin passed information to Israel about Iran’s air defense centers, says Seyyed Mohammad Sadr, a member of Iran’s Expediency Council, Al Arabiya reports.

Alliance cracking at seams

“This war proved the uselessness of the strategic alliance with Moscow,” Sadr claims, stressing that the Kremlin essentially failed to support Tehran during its conflict with Israel.

Even when Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived in Moscow on 23 June requesting air defense systems and assistance for nuclear facilities, Russia limited itself to verbal condemnation of Israel’s attacks, according to Asriran. 

The visit happened during the Russia-US negotiations over Ukraine and when US President Donald Trump’s administation regarded Moscow as potential partner, which could secure Iranian nuclear technology. 

Russia emerges as potential mediator in Trump’s new Iran nuclear deal talks

Putin and Pezeshkian: strategic partnership on paper

In January 2025, the presidents of Russia and Iran, Vladimir Putin and Masoud Pezeshkian, signed a “strategic partnership” treaty in Moscow, which the Kremlin called “groundbreaking.”

However, during the war with Israel it became clear that Moscow was not ready to actually defend its ally. Moreover, back in 2024, Israel destroyed all Russian S-300 systems in Iran, while the promised S-400s were never delivered.

InformNapalm and Militant Intelligence experts have uncovered evidence of cooperation between a Polish aircraft plant and Russia’s defense-industrial complex. They have obtained documents confirming schemes to bypass sanctions, international contracts, and Moscow’s financial operations.

Plant in Łódź under scrutiny

At the center of the scandal is the Wojskowe Zakłady Lotnicze nr 1 aircraft plant in Łódź. The enterprise specializes in the repair and modernization of Soviet-era helicopters Mi-2, Mi-8 (17), Mi-14, and Mi-24. In recent years, it has also worked with equipment from Western manufacturers such as Sikorsky, AgustaWestland, and Eurocopter.

The plant services both the Polish Armed Forces and private clients, making it an important player in the European aviation sector.

€1.2 million transferred to Russia

According to the disclosed documents, on 20 January 2022, the enterprise transferred more than €926,000 to the account of the Russian company “Russian Helicopters” via Sberbank.

Just days later, on 26 January, another payment of over €319,000 followed. In total, Russia received nearly €1.2 million, less than a month before its all-out war against Ukraine.

Sanctions violations and support for the Kremlin

Experts emphasize that even if the payments were intended for the purchase of specific helicopter components used by NATO countries, such cooperation effectively supported Russia’s defense sector.

The transferred funds became direct financial assistance to the Kremlin’s defense industry, which was already preparing for a major war against Ukraine.

Ukraine moves closer to a $50 million drone deal with the US. On 25 August, Ukrainian Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal met with US Special Envoy for Ukraine and Russia Keith Kellogg in Kyiv to discuss the frontline situation, weapons production, and joint defense projects.

Drone deal: 10 million drones per year

Ukraine proposed joint drone production with the US worth $50 billion over five years. According to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the deal envisions producing 10 million drones annually, making it one of the largest defense initiatives worldwide.

The deal includes not only bulk procurement of Ukrainian drones but also the development of joint technologies to strengthen Ukraine’s defense capabilities. The political decision was made by Presidents Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Donald Trump in Washington, Glavcom reports.

Recently, Ukrainian Parliament Speaker Ruslan Stefanchuk has confirmed plans to finalize the landmark deal: Ukraine will sell its domestically developed drones and, in return, receive advanced US weapons. Kyiv offers partners unique technologies, security products, and defense expertise.

US support and NATO cooperation

Defense Minister Shmyhal thanked General Kellogg and the American for leadership and support, emphasizing that “it helps save lives and brings a just peace closer.”

He also praised the Prioritized Ukraine Requirements List initiative, which allows NATO countries to rapidly supply critical US weapons and technology.

Boosting production and security guarantees

Shmyhal also briefed Kellogg on Ukraine’s defense priorities: ramping up ammunition and drone production to halt the aggressor’s offensive. Joint projects in this area help more efficiently equip Ukrainian soldiers.

They also discussed creating reliable security guarantees to prevent future aggression against Ukraine, developed in close cooperation with international partners.

Ukraine’s Prosecutor General’s Office reports it has completed the pre-trial investigation and sent an indictment to the High Anti-Corruption Court against ex-Defense Ministry officials and representatives of a private company. They are accused of stealing millions of dollars in a large military procurement scheme. 

Case details

According to Ukrainian prosecutors, in August 2022, the officials, together with representatives of the enterprise, concluded a state contract to purchase 100,000 mortar rounds.

The full contract, amounting to over $36 million, was transferred, but the supplier delayed delivery, while the required weapons have never reached the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

Crime classification

The actions of the accused individuals have been qualified under Part 5, Article 191 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, which is misappropriation of another’s property on an especially large scale, committed by an organized group.

Details regarding two other suspects were separated into individual proceedings due to their being at large.

Investigation and oversight

The pre-trial investigation was conducted by the Main Investigation Department of the National Police of Ukraine with operational support from the SBU’s Department for the Protection of National Statehood.

A Ukrainian political prisoner burst into tears after his return home after seven years in a Russian colony. Kostiantyn Davidenko finally set foot on Ukrainian soil on 24 August as part of the 68th prisoner exchange.

Serving such a long sentence is remarkable, as many prisoners die in Russian captivity within a year or two due to lack of medical care, torture with electric shocks, and the absence of adequate food.

Long captivity and an unjust sentence

On 11 February 2018, the Russian FSB detained Davidenko in Simferopol. On 6 June 2019, the so-called “Supreme Court” of Crimea sentenced him to 10.5 years in a high-security colony, accusing him of spying for Ukraine, UkrInform reports.

Russian intelligence claimed he was allegedly gathering information on the activities of Russian National Guard units and FSB personnel.

A vital signal for other political prisoners

“This is an important signal for others who have lost hope and waited for years — you will come home,” Ihor Kotelyanets, head of the NGO Association of Relatives of Kremlin Political Prisoners, emphasizes. 

He adds that hundreds of Ukrainians imprisoned in Russia since 2014 still need to be rescued, including Hennadiy Lymeshko, Halyna Dovhopola, Valentyn Vyhivskyi, Volodymyr Yakymenko, Victor Shur, and the Abdullaiev brothers.

Davidenko’s words upon return

Stepping onto Ukrainian soil, Davidenko said, “Ukraine is bringing its people home. But many others, imprisoned in Russia since 2014, 2015, or 2016, are still there. They need to be here.”

This exchange is further proof that Ukraine is systematically working to return its citizens from captivity, including those unlawfully imprisoned before the all-out war.

Ukraine’s new guided bomb was spotted at the Defence Cooperation Forum. Future Warfare held in Kyiv on 24 August. As Ukrainian authorities were showing their latest innovations to their Western allies, the compact aerial bomb attracted attention from Defense Express experts.

Domestic innovation on the international stage

President Volodymyr Zelensky and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney attended the presentation, reviewing the newest developments from Ukraine’s defense-industrial complex.

The experts noted that the new bomb closely resembles the Turkish MAM-L, long used with Bayraktar TB2 drones.

Features of the Ukrainian air bomb

• Stabilizers and control surfaces are similar to the MAM-L.
• A protruding top section, likely for pylon attachment.
• The rear section includes a unique module absent in the Turkish version.
• The texture of the body and stabilizers suggest the possibility of 3D printing production.

Specifications still under wraps

Detailed technical data remain unknown, but analysts expect the new munition to significantly enhance the effectiveness of Ukraine’s airstrikes.

Ukraine once again becomes the center of global security. On Independence Day, August 24, the Defence Cooperation Forum. Future Warfare was held in Kyiv, according to the Ukraine’s Defense Ministry. 

The significance of this event for Ukraine is underscored by the fact that the main session was chaired by President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy with the participation of international partners. The forum was held in a shelter. 

World leaders on the future of war

The defense ministers of Denmark, Canada, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, Sweden, representatives of the United Kingdom, Estonia, and the Czech Republic, as well as delegates from the EU and NATO, attended the forum. 

Key issues of modern defense were discussed:

• digitalization of the military sphere,
• innovations,
• The use of artificial intelligence in warfare.

Ukraine as part of Europe’s collective security

“We will be part of the European Union and an integral part of joint security strategies. It is now important to more closely integrate our defense industries to solve common tasks,” Ukraine’s Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal emphasized. 

Build in Ukraine: a new format of cooperation

Ukraine called on partners to join the Build in Ukraine program, which provides for the creation of:

• factories and service centers,
• production lines,
• joint projects with domestic manufacturers — from co-design to licensed production.

“We are strong because we are together. United by goals and values, we will win, defend Ukraine and the free world,” the defense minister stated.

“This is the end of Starlink internet for Ukraine.” Poland’s Digital Minister Krzysztof Gawkowski has sharply criticized President Karol Nawrocki’s decision to veto a law on assistance to Ukrainians who fled Russia’s war. 

According to Gawkowski, the president’s veto effectively blocks providing Ukraine with internet access via Starlink and halts support for storing data from the Ukrainian state administration in secure Polish data centers.

“Karol Nawrocki is shutting down the Internet for Ukraine with his decision… This is the end of Starlink internet, which Poland provides to Ukraine, waging war.

This is also the end of support for storing Ukrainian administration data in a safe place,” says Gawkowski. 

“A gift to the Kremlin”

Gawkowski has stressed that this step plays into Russia’s hands. 

“I can’t imagine a better gift for Putin’s troops than cutting off Ukraine from the internet, which the President has just decided,” he claims. 

Politics versus security

The deputy prime minister appealed to the president, urging him to stop using veto power as a political weapon.

“Mr. President – you must stop blindly throwing punches at the government in the name of political fighting. You are harming people who are fighting for their independence and at the same time helping Russia,” Gawkowski concludes. 

Earlier, Ukrainian Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko said Kyiv tested the revolutionary Starlink Direct to Cell technology for the first time.

It allows smartphones to connect directly to satellites without special antennas or equipment. The technology could keep communications running even during massive attacks and blackouts. 

Kyiv sends first wartime text via new Starlink’s tech — no Russian-made blackout can interrupt it

A strike at the heart of Russia’s gas empire! Ukrainian forces hit a gas processing complex in Russia’s Ust-Luga, Leningrad Oblast, a strategic facility of the aggressor country in the Baltic region, according to Armiia TV. 

Target and consequences of the strike

“Ukrainian drones struck the gas processing complex of Novatek, the largest liquefied gas producer in Russia. The hit targeted the cryogenic fractionation unit for gas condensate/gas, which is the ‘heart’ of the facility’s technological processes,” the sources say.

This is the second successful attack on the Ust-Luga port in 2025, the first occurring in early January.

Strategic importance of Ust-Luga’s object

“Ust-Luga is Russia’s largest maritime hub in the Baltic. Shadow fleet, sanctioned oil — everything passes through there,” Lieutenant Andrii Kovalenko, head of the Center for Countering Disinformation at the National Security and Defense Council, stated. 

Thanks to precise drone strikes, the operation disrupted the work of a key Russian logistics hub supplying liquefied gas and oil to external markets.

Former Kherson Mayor Volodymyr Mykolaienko has returned from Russian captivity as part of a prisoner exchange between Ukraine and Russia on Ukraine’s Independence Day, Suspilne reports. 

His release coincided with the day before his mother’s birthday, making it especially significant for the family.

“It’s the greatest celebration we could have. We are all crying with joy and happiness. We can’t calm down, answering all calls,” his niece, Hanna Korshun-Samchuk, shared. 

Mykolaienko immediately called his wife, and his first words were: “Glory to Ukraine.”

Time behind bars 

Russian forces abducted Mykolaienko on 18 April 2022, following threats from local collaborators. For a long time, his whereabouts were unknown until the International Committee of the Red Cross confirmed his detention.

Mykolaienko served as Kherson’s mayor from 2014 to 2020 and was active in local Euromaidan protests supporting Ukraine’s European integration.

Heroic decision in captivity

According to Andrii Yermak, Head of the President’s Office, Mykolaienko had the chance to return from captivity in 2022 but refused to save a critically ill cellmate first.

“Many young people break under this pressure. People of older age survived much, and the main task of the Russian authorities is to destroy us physically and morally. They are succeeding at it,” Mykolaienko said in his first address to the public after the release. 

Meanwhile, another Kherson mayor is still captive in Russia

After Volodymyr Mykolaienko, who served as Kherson’s mayor before the all-out war, Ihor Kolykhaiev was elected as the city’s mayor. He led Kherson until the Russian occupation in 2022, after which he was abducted by Russian forces.

Former Russian prisoner reveals he saw kidnapped Kherson mayor in FSB prison

On 25 April 2022, Russian forces seized the Kherson City Council building, and by 26 April, they installed their own “city government.” Kolyhaiev remained in the city, working remotely until his kidnapping on 28 June 2022.

Several reports have indicated that Ihor Kolykhaiev has serious health problems and is being subjected to torture while in Russian captivity, according to Kavun. He spent over a year in Taganrog, according to the Coordination Headquarters, before being transferred deeper into Russia. This is the latest information on the mayor as of February.