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The Russia-Ukraine war has reached its 1,349th day, with escalating military confrontations, diplomatic tensions, and humanitarian crises. Below are the latest key events shaping the conflict.
1. Heavy Fighting in Donetsk and Kharkiv
Russian forces intensified attacks in Donetsk, targeting Avdiivka and Bakhmut, while Ukraine repelled assaults near Kharkiv. Both sides reported significant casualties amid relentless artillery duels.
2. Ukraine Hits Russian Oil Refinery in Rostov
Ukrainian drone strikes ignited a major fire at a Rostov oil refinery, disrupting Russian fuel supplies. Kyiv continues targeting energy infrastructure to weaken Moscow’s war economy.
3. NATO Approves $2.3B Military Aid for Ukraine
NATO allies pledged advanced air defense systems, artillery, and long-range missiles, including a $500M U.S. package. Germany also confirmed Leopard 2 tank deliveries ahead of a feared Russian summer offensive.
4. Russia Expands Conscription Amid Human Rights Concerns
Moscow announced 150,000 new conscriptions, with reports of forced mobilization in occupied Ukraine. Rights groups warn of worsening abuses as Russia prepares for prolonged war.
5. Ukraine Accuses Russia of Child Deportations from Kherson
Kyiv alleges 200+ children were forcibly taken from Kherson to Russia. The ICC has previously issued arrest warrants for related war crimes, which Moscow denies.
6. Black Sea Grain Deal Talks Collapse, Threatening Food Security
Negotiations to revive the grain export deal stalled as Russia demands sanctions relief. Ukraine warns of a deepening global food crisis, especially in Africa and the Middle East.
7. Zelensky Warns of Russian Sabotage Before EU Summit
President Zelensky urged NATO/EU leaders to expedite Ukraine’s membership, cautioning against Russian cyberattacks and disinformation ahead of key discussions.
8. Putin Floats Ceasefire—If Ukraine Surrenders Territory
The Russian leader offered conditional peace talks, demanding Kyiv cede occupied lands and drop NATO ambitions. Ukraine rejected the proposal as a “delaying tactic.”
9. Civilian Deaths Rise as Shelling Strikes Zaporizhzhia, Kramatorsk
At least 12 killed in Russian strikes on Zaporizhzhia homes. The UN condemned attacks on civilians and called for urgent evacuations.
10. Belarus Troop Movements Near Ukraine Border Raise Alarms
Satellite images show Belarus reinforcing its border, sparking fears of a potential second front. Minsk denies direct involvement but remains a Kremlin ally.
Conclusion: No End in Sight
With no peace negotiations underway, the war grinds on. Ukraine relies on Western aid for counteroffensives, while Russia bets on attrition. Civilians remain the primary victims.
Follow [NextMinuteNews] for real-time war updates.
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