Russia-Ukraine Conflict Key Developments Day 1,191

Russia announced on Thursday the capture of three Ukrainian villages—Stroivka in Kharkiv, and Shevchenko Pershe and Hnativka near Pokrovsk in Donetsk. Meanwhile, Ukraine reported widespread attacks overnight, including 90 drones and artillery strikes that killed at least seven civilians across five frontline regions.

Russia claimed to have intercepted 48 Ukrainian drones, including some near Moscow. Ukrainian attacks also struck Russia’s Kursk region, damaging buildings and injuring at least one civilian, according to regional officials.

In Ukraine’s Sumy region, intense fighting continues near the border, especially around Khotyn and Yunakivka. The situation remains fluid, with control frequently shifting between Russian and Ukrainian forces.

Diplomatic Tensions:

The Kremlin is awaiting Ukraine’s response to a proposed meeting in Istanbul on Monday. While Kyiv has expressed willingness to resume talks, it insists Moscow first provide a detailed proposal outlining its peace terms. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accused Russia of stalling and not submitting any formal memorandum.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov dismissed Ukraine’s request as unhelpful. Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan urged both sides to stay open to dialogue. UN officials voiced concern over Russia’s intensified military campaign, with Ukrainian and Western representatives stating that Russia shows no intent to end the war. Russia’s UN envoy Vassily Nebenzia countered by blaming Kyiv for prolonging the conflict and insisted Ukraine’s defeat was unavoidable.

The U.S. warned that if Russia persists with its offensive, Washington may pull back from peace efforts and impose more sanctions.

Military Support and Allegations:

Zelenskyy confirmed he discussed possible deliveries of Taurus cruise missiles with German officials during a visit to Berlin. Meanwhile, Russia accused Serbia of covertly supplying arms to Ukraine through NATO countries like the Czech Republic, Poland, and Bulgaria, and even some African intermediaries.

Regional and Economic Notes:

A Belarusian-run Polish-language radio station is reportedly spreading pro-Russian propaganda online, despite EU sanctions. This comes ahead of Poland’s presidential run-off election, which is closely monitored in Europe.

On the economic front, the IMF has approved a review of its loan program with Ukraine, unlocking $500 million to support the country’s macroeconomic stability.