Russia-Ukraine War: Day 1,361 – Major Developments
As the conflict enters its 1,361st day, intense battles, geopolitical shifts, and humanitarian crises dominate the headlines. Below are the most critical updates from today:
1. Heavy Fighting in Eastern Ukraine
Russian forces intensified attacks near Avdiivka (Donetsk Oblast), leveraging recent territorial gains. Ukrainian troops reported heavy artillery and drone strikes, with high casualties on both sides. Meanwhile, Ukraine claimed successful defenses near Bakhmut, where combat remains relentless.
2. Ukrainian Drone Strikes Hit Russian Oil Depot
Ukraine launched drone attacks on a Krasnodar oil depot, igniting a major fire. Russia condemned the strikes as “terrorism,” while Kyiv defended them as targeting military supply routes.
3. NATO Approves $2.3B Military Aid Package
NATO allies pledged advanced air defense systems, artillery, and long-range missiles to bolster Ukraine’s forces. U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin reaffirmed unwavering support amid urgent Ukrainian requests for faster deliveries.
4. Russia Threatens Escalation Over F-16 Transfers
The Kremlin warned of retaliation if U.S.-made F-16s arrive in Ukraine by mid-2025, calling it a “dangerous provocation.” Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov hinted at possible military responses, raising NATO-Russia tensions.
5. Kharkiv Shelling Triggers Civilian Evacuations
Russian bombardment forced mass evacuations in Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city. At least 12 civilians died, with critical infrastructure damaged, worsening humanitarian conditions.
6. Putin & Lukashenko Discuss Military Integration
Russian President Vladimir Putin met Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko in Minsk, fueling speculation about Belarus’s potential direct involvement. Lukashenko, however, insisted on avoiding escalation.
7. Russia Blocks Ukrainian Grain Exports
Moscow’s Black Sea blockade continues disrupting global food supplies. Ukraine accuses Russia of targeting farms and ports, while the UN pushes for reviving the Black Sea Grain Initiative.
8. War Protests Spread Across Europe
Poland and Germany saw anti-war protests demanding reduced military aid to Ukraine, citing economic strains. Analysts warn of weakening Western unity ahead of key elections.
9. ICC Issues Arrest Warrants for Russian Officers
The International Criminal Court (ICC) accused two Russian commanders of war crimes, including civilian bombings. Moscow dismissed the warrants as “political,” while Ukraine welcomed the move.
10. Zelensky Urges Faster Weapons Deliveries
President Volodymyr Zelensky pleaded for accelerated arms shipments, warning that delays “cost Ukrainian lives.” He also hinted at a 2025 counteroffensive, dependent on sustained Western support.
What to Watch Next?
- Expanded drone warfare targeting energy and logistics.
- G7 Summit talks on Ukraine’s defense needs.
- Russian troop mobilization to offset battlefield losses.
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