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As the Russia-Ukraine war enters its 1,348th day, intense battles, diplomatic shifts, and humanitarian crises continue to shape the conflict. Below are the latest key developments from the frontlines and beyond.
1. Escalated Fighting in Donetsk and Kharkiv
Russian forces intensified attacks in Donetsk and Kharkiv, targeting strategic areas like Avdiivka and Chasiv Yar. Ukraine’s military acknowledged heavy shelling but assured reinforcements. Meanwhile, Ukrainian drones struck Russian oil depots in Krasnodar and Belgorod, disrupting supply lines.
2. NATO Approves ATACMS Missiles for Ukraine
The U.S. confirmed long-range ATACMS missile deliveries in a new $500 million aid package, enabling strikes up to 300 km deep into Russian-held territory. Moscow condemned the move as a “direct provocation.”
3. Russian Covert Mobilization Expands
Reports reveal Russia is recruiting prisoners and stepping up rural conscription to replenish forces. Over 1,000 Siberian inmates reportedly joined private military units, signaling preparation for a summer offensive.
4. Ukraine Strikes Russian Warship in Black Sea
Ukrainian forces damaged the Russian patrol ship Sergey Kotov near Crimea using sea drones, challenging Moscow’s Black Sea dominance. Russian sources downplayed the attack.
5. EU Proposes New LNG Sanctions on Russia
The 14th EU sanctions package targets Russian LNG shipments, aiming to ban trans-shipments via EU ports. Hungary and Slovakia oppose the measures, risking delays.
6. Rising Civilian Toll & Energy Crisis
UN reports 12 civilian deaths in 24 hours, including a Dnipro missile strike. Over 500,000 Ukrainians lack power due to Russian attacks on energy grids. Aid groups warn of worsening winter hardships.
7. Diplomatic Tensions Grow
- Russia summoned the U.S. ambassador, accusing Washington of aiding Ukrainian strikes.
- China called for peace talks but faced criticism for backing Russia economically.
8. Zelenskyy Pushes for Faster F-16 Deliveries
Ukraine’s president urged Denmark and the Netherlands to expedite F-16 fighter jets, expected by mid-2024, to counter Russian air power.
9. Putin’s Propaganda Escalates
In a televised speech, Putin accused the West of “pushing Ukraine to suicide” and vowed victory. Meanwhile, independent Russian media faced heightened censorship.
10. Global Reactions & Protests
- Pro-Ukraine protests surged in Europe, demanding more military aid.
- Far-right groups in Germany/France called to end support, citing economic strain.
What’s Next?
Analysts foresee a prolonged war of attrition, with Ukraine racing to secure Western aid while Russia tests defenses. Follow live updates for the latest.
— NextMinuteNews
