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As the Russia-Ukraine war enters its 1,367th day, the conflict continues to escalate with new military offensives, strategic strikes, and geopolitical tensions. Below is a detailed breakdown of the most critical events from the past 24 hours.
1. Heavy Fighting in Donetsk & Kharkiv
Russian forces intensified attacks in Donetsk, targeting key areas near Avdiivka and Chasiv Yar. Ukrainian defenses faced relentless artillery and drone assaults. In Kharkiv, Ukraine repelled a Russian attack near Lyptsi, though shelling injured five civilians.
2. Ukraine Hits Russian Oil Refinery in Rostov
Ukrainian drones struck a major Rostov oil refinery, causing severe fire damage. Kyiv aims to weaken Russia’s war economy, while Moscow labels the attack as “terrorism.”
3. NATO Approves $43B Annual Military Aid for Ukraine
NATO allies committed $43 billion per year in military assistance, including air defense systems and long-range missiles. Jens Stoltenberg reaffirmed NATO’s unwavering support for Ukraine.
4. Russia Announces Partial Mobilization (150K Reservists)
Russia ordered a new wave of mobilization, drafting 150,000 reservists, signaling preparations for a prolonged war. Protests erupted in multiple Russian cities.
5. UN Reports Surge in Civilian Casualties
The United Nations documented rising deaths in Kherson and Zaporizhzhia, with 12+ killed and 30+ injured from intensified shelling. Humanitarian concerns grow.
6. Putin Threatens “Asymmetric Response” to Sanctions
Vladimir Putin warned of retaliatory measures against Western sanctions, hinting at cyberattacks and economic disruptions. Analysts fear escalation in hybrid warfare.
7. Zelenskyy Urges Faster Weapons Deliveries
Volodymyr Zelenskyy pressed allies to speed up military aid, citing delays that allow Russia to regroup. He thanked the U.S. for its $60B aid package but urged Europe to act faster.
8. China Proposes Ukraine Ceasefire Talks
China offered to mediate peace talks, though skepticism remains due to its ties with Moscow. The U.S. insists any deal must uphold Ukraine’s sovereignty.
9. Black Sea Blockade Sparks Wheat Price Surge (7%)
Russia’s renewed blockade of Ukrainian grain exports sent wheat prices up 7%, raising fears of a global food crisis. UN and Turkey push for a revived grain deal.
10. Navalny Supporters Rally on His 48th Birthday
Exiled supporters of Alexei Navalny held protests across Europe, demanding justice for Russian political prisoners amid Kremlin crackdowns.
Conclusion
With no end in sight, the Russia-Ukraine war continues to devastate lives and reshape global security. Follow NextMinuteNews for real-time updates.
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