As the Russia-Ukraine war reaches its 1,350th day, intense battles, diplomatic clashes, and humanitarian crises continue to shape the conflict. Below are the latest key developments from the war zone.
1. Heavy Fighting in Eastern Ukraine
Russian forces escalated attacks in Donetsk and Kharkiv, targeting Chasiv Yar and Kupiansk. Ukraine reports heavy artillery and drone strikes as Moscow pushes for gains before new Western aid arrives. Casualty figures remain contested.
2. Ukraine Hits Russian Oil Refineries in Drone Strikes
Ukrainian drones struck multiple oil refineries in Krasnodar and Rostov, disrupting fuel supplies. Russia calls it “terrorism,” while Kyiv defends the strikes as strategic hits on military logistics.
3. NATO Approves $40 Billion Military Aid for Ukraine
NATO allies pledged $40 billion in new military aid, including air defenses, artillery, and long-range missiles. The U.S. reaffirmed support, despite political hurdles. Russia warns this will prolong the war.
4. Russia’s Secret Mobilization & Rising Draft Evasion
Moscow is quietly recruiting more troops, but thousands flee to Kazakhstan and Georgia to avoid conscription. The Kremlin tightens borders and enforces harsher penalties for draft dodgers.
5. Civilian Deaths & Worsening Humanitarian Crisis
The UN reports over 10,000 civilian deaths since 2022, with Kharkiv and Zaporizhzhia facing recent attacks. Aid groups warn of dire conditions as winter looms and infrastructure crumbles.
6. Diplomatic Row: Russia Expels German Officials
Moscow expelled two German diplomats over alleged espionage, prompting Berlin to threaten retaliation. China urges peace talks, but Ukraine doubts Beijing’s neutrality due to its Russia ties.
7. Ukraine Plans New Counteroffensive
President Zelenskyy hints at a 2024 counteroffensive, possibly targeting Russia’s Crimea supply routes. Success hinges on timely Western arms and troop morale.
8. New Sanctions on Russian Oligarchs & Arms Suppliers
The EU and U.S. imposed fresh sanctions on Russian elites and arms producers, freezing assets and restricting tech exports. Moscow dismisses them, but economists warn of long-term damage.
9. Propaganda War Intensifies
Both sides ramp up disinformation campaigns. Russian media claims victories, while Ukraine shares drone strike footage. Fake accounts spread divisive narratives globally.
10. Global Food Supply at Risk After Grain Deal Collapse
Despite alternative export routes, Russian blockades and port attacks threaten grain supplies, risking hunger in Africa and the Middle East.
What’s Next?
With no peace in sight, the war drags on, reshaping global alliances. The world watches for escalation or a diplomatic breakthrough.
Follow NextMinuteNews for real-time updates.
