Russian forces have accused Kyiv of orchestrating a drone strike on a Russian oil depot in Klintsy, leading to a massive fire. This follows a series of escalating cross-border attacks, with Russian officials claiming four oil reservoirs were set ablaze. Despite electronic jamming by air defenses, the explosive payload hit the facility, causing no casualties. Kyiv, labeling it "fair" retaliation for Russian strikes on Ukrainian energy infrastructure, faces accusations of a drone attack. Simultaneously, concerns arise over the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant's security, as mines, previously removed, have allegedly been reinstalled.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reports that Russian forces have reintroduced mines along the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant's perimeter in the occupied Zaporizhzhia oblast. The plant, Europe's largest, has been under Russian control since March 4, 2022, yet continues operations. The reinstalled mines, initially removed by the IAEA in November 2023, pose a safety risk, contrary to IAEA standards. Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi expresses concern, emphasizing the restricted area's inaccessibility to operational plant personnel.
In other developments:
Ukrainian President's Quote: Andriy Yermak, the head of the Office of the Ukrainian Presidency, references Winston Churchill in an interview, stating, "Give us the tools and we will finish the job." Expressing reliance on partners and ongoing efforts to enhance the military-industrial complex, Yermak highlights the enduring strength of UK-Ukraine relations.
Romanian Protesters: Blockades at the Porubne-Siret crossing along the Romanian-Ukrainian border have ceased, with Romanian farmers and truck drivers ending the protest. Issues cited include the high cost of diesel, insurance rates, EU environmental measures, and pressures from imported Ukrainian agricultural goods.
Russian Airstrikes: Russian forces launch seven Shahed-136/131 attack drones against Ukraine, with four shot down by Ukrainian air defense. Over the past 24 hours, Russia launches missiles, airstrikes, and artillery fire targeting various Ukrainian locations.
Russian Losses: Ukraine's armed forces report Russia losing 375,270 troops since the conflict's onset, including 750 casualties in the past day. Extensive losses include tanks, combat vehicles, artillery systems, jets, drones, warships, and a submarine.
Proposed Russian Legislation: Russian lawmakers propose a bill allowing confiscation of assets from those spreading "deliberately false information" about the country's armed forces. The bill also targets actions like "discrediting" the armed forces or calling for sanctions against Russia.
As tensions persist, the situation underscores the complex dynamics of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.