Russian defences reportedly shot down 11 Ukrainian drones targeting Moscow, marking one of the largest attacks on the capital.
Dmitry Medvedev, deputy head of Russia’s Security Council, declared that Ukraine’s incursion into the Kursk region means negotiations between Moscow and Kyiv are off the table until Ukraine is defeated.
A 14-year-old boy died from his injuries in hospital after a Russian munition struck a kiosk at a children’s playground in Ukraine’s southern Zaporizhia region, regional Governor Ivan Fedorov said. Three other children and an 18-year-old girl were also hurt in the attack on Malokaterynivka village.
Meanwhile, Ukraine’s military announced that it had successfully destroyed 50 out of 69 Russian attack drones launched during an overnight strike. Additionally,
Ukrainian forces down Demand and air-launched missile, and intercepted two ballistic missiles.
Most of the remaining drones failed to hit their targets, suggesting they were neutralized by electronic countermeasures.
In a separate development, Ukraine’s parliament voted to ratify the Rome Statute, a crucial step towards joining the European Union.
The Ukrainian military also reported detecting a drone crossing into Belarus and another returning to Belgorod, highlighting the ongoing tensions in the region. The move was supported by 281 people’s deputies.
Meanwhile, Russia’s relentless missile and drone attacks across nine Ukrainian regions have caused widespread destruction, including a massive fire at an industrial facility in the west.
Ukrainian forces have shown remarkable resilience, shooting down three ballistic missiles and 25 of the 26 drones used in the attack.
In a significant development, Ukraine’s top military commander, Oleksandr Syrskii, announced that Ukrainian forces have advanced 28-35km into Russian territory, capturing 1,263sq km of land, including 93 settlements, since August 6.
As Ukraine gains ground, Russia is scrambling to respond. Defence Minister Andrei Belousov has announced the formation of new military groupings in Kursk and two other border regions, aiming to push back Ukraine’s deploying frontline soldiers deep inside Ukraine.
In a symbolic move, Ukrainian lawmakers have passed a law banning activities tied to the Russian Orthodox Church or any religious group supporting Russia’s invasion, underscoring Ukraine’s determination to resist Russian influence.
