Ukraine Presses NATO for Membership as Russia Escalates Offensive

Kiev seeks security guarantees through NATO membership while Russian forces claim gains in eastern and southern Ukraine.

Ukrainian officials emphasize that full NATO membership is the only reliable security guarantee against Russian aggression.
The Kremlin labels Ukraine's potential NATO membership an 'unacceptable threat,' underscoring heightened tensions in the region.
Russian forces report capturing two villages—Romanivka in Donetsk and Novodarivka in Zaporijjia—amid intensified fighting.
Ukraine's military claims to have repelled a Russian attempt to cross the Oskil River near Kupiansk, maintaining control over key territory.
Russian attacks on infrastructure have caused widespread power outages in western Ukraine, far from the front lines.