Drone Warfare Escalates in Ukraine-Russia Conflict; China Engages in Diplomatic Talks

Ukrainian Strikes Inside Russia Challenge Putin's Narrative; Zelenskyy Pushes for Transparency Amid EU Membership Bid

Drone warfare between Russia and Ukraine has intensified, with both sides reporting attempted drone attacks against their territories. Russian authorities reported shooting down 21 Ukrainian drones over various regions, while Ukraine's air force reported destroying 15 out of 35 Russian drones launched at Ukrainian energy and military infrastructure.
China's Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong met with Ukrainian ambassador to China Pavlo Riabikin, discussing issues of shared concern, including the Ukraine crisis. This meeting signals China's increasing involvement in the ongoing conflict.
Ukrainian strikes on targets inside Russia, including a fuel export terminal and several refineries, have challenged President Putin's attempts to reassure Russians that the war is not affecting their daily lives. These attacks have increased the visibility of the war on Russian soil.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has published his income over a two-year period as part of Kyiv's push for European Union membership, demonstrating a commitment to transparency and anti-corruption measures.
Public sentiment in Russia is showing signs of dissent, with petitions supporting a presidential candidate who advocates for ending the war and protests against the jailing of a local activist.