Summary
Ukraine’s recent attacks on Crimea are causing real headaches for Russia, with ATMs down and fuel shortages even on the black market. Meanwhile, Russia’s military is reportedly cooking up new plans to capture Kyiv, while drone strikes hit Moscow, showing the war’s escalating back-and-forth.
Key Stories
Ukraine’s strikes disrupt daily life in Crimea — Recent Ukrainian attacks on Crimea are making life tough for locals, with ATMs failing and petrol running scarce—even on the black market. The disruptions highlight how the war is spilling into everyday routines in occupied regions.
Russia plans new offensive to capture Kyiv, says Ukraine — Ukraine’s military chief claims Putin has ordered fresh plans to take Kyiv, signaling Russia isn’t backing down. The move comes as both sides brace for more intense fighting in the coming weeks.
Dozens of drones hit Moscow in latest strike — Moscow’s mayor said over 60 drones were shot down after a wave of attacks on the capital. While damage and casualties are still being assessed, the strikes show Ukraine’s ability to hit deep inside Russia.
Zelenskyy and Zaluzhnyy’s political futures in focus — Speculation is growing about whether Ukraine’s president or top general could run for office this fall. Their popularity could shape the country’s leadership amid the ongoing war.
Russia and Belarus leaders meet in Valdai amid tensions — Putin and Lukashenko held a closed-door meeting in Valdai, but no official statement followed. The silence has fueled speculation about deeper military or political coordination between the two allies.