Ukraine Invasion: Part 57

[MagicFox]

Welcome to 57. Slava Ukraini 🇺🇦

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Kyiv Post

🔹 Russia continues to gradually neutralize the influence of the Wagner PMC in Africa, which became an acknowledged threat following its Prigozhin-led mutiny in 2023.

🔸 “Medvedev [former Russian President] was talking about nuclear, when you talk about nuclear we have to be prepared. We are totally prepared,” — Trump

🔹 One of the largest drone attacks of the war hit multiple Russian regions, damaging a defense factory, igniting oil refineries, and prompting air raid alerts across the country.

Posted on the Trump thread but for those not on there:

For anyone feeling a bit nervous about Trump’s nuclear rhetoric (no one here seems to be but there may be lurkers). I listened to the Global News Podcast this morning which featured an interview with James Acton, Co-Director of the Nuclear Policy Programme at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and his view is that it’s not a serious threat and it’s actually “a bit sad to be honest”.

https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-august-1-2025

Key Takeaways:

• US President Donald Trump ordered the deployment of two US nuclear submarines closer to Russia presumably in response to Russian Security Council Deputy Chairperson Dmitry Medvedev's July 31 nuclear threats against the United States.
• The Kremlin continued its nuclear threats against the United States before the ordered deployment of US nuclear submarines on August 1 – demonstrating that Medvedev's threats are part of a wider Kremlin nuclear saber-rattling campaign.
• Putin reiterated on August 1 the same demands that he first laid out in June 2024 – further demonstrating Russia's uncompromising position and disinterest in negotiating to end its war against Ukraine.
• Putin attempted to frame peace negotiations to end the war in Ukraine as making progress while blaming Ukraine for slowing the speed of negotiations.
• Putin's and Lukashenko's August 1 statements underscore Putin's continued commitment to his theory of victory, which assumes that Russia can outlast Western support for Ukraine and will be able to seize the entirety of Ukraine through slow and costly advances.
• Putin and Lukashenko highlighted recent Russian advances in Donetsk Oblast and articulated Russia's desire to seize Ukraine's fortress belt, which ISW continues to assess as a multi-year effort.
• Putin and Lukashenko projected military strength and economic stability as part of Putin's ongoing effort to convince Trump that sanctions and military support to Ukraine will not alter the outcome of the war in Ukraine and that Trump should abandon his efforts to resolve the war.
• Russian President Vladimir Putin appears to be transforming Russia into a Soviet-style police state, likely in preparation for expected anti-war sentiment in the Russian population as the Kremlin prolongs the war in Ukraine and prepares for a future war with NATO.
• Russia continues to field long-range drone innovations to facilitate its ongoing long-range strike campaign and impose greater civilian casualties on Ukraine.
• Ukrainian forces recently advanced in northern Sumy Oblast and near Borova and Lyman. Russian forces recently advanced near Kupyansk, Siversk, Toretsk, and Pokrovsk.

UNITED24Media
"We are hearing statements from Russia, and if this is a signal of their serious readiness to end the war with dignity and establish a truly lasting peace, and not just an attempt to win and postpone sanctions, then Ukraine once again confirms its readiness to meet at the leadership level at any time," President Zelenskyy said. https://t.me/United24media/34064

Zelenskyy and Starmer discussed possible formats for talks at the leadership level and coordination of steps with Trump. https://t.me/United24media/34065
The British Prime Minister also expressed condolences over the deaths of civilians as a result of the Russian shelling of Kyiv on July 31.
"It was an absolutely vile, brutal strike with missiles and drones, which took the lives of 31 people, including five children. We talked today about how to stop the killings, give more protection to our people and force Russia to end this war," Zelenskyy noted.
In addition, the parties discussed sanctions against the Russian Federation.
"Russia is really afraid of them, no matter how hard it tries to pretend that it does not bypass it. Sanctions are definitely working, and there will only be more of them. We are working with everyone on coordinated restrictive measures," the president said.

Russians hit the Sumy railway station, damaging the Kharkiv–Uzhhorod train. Passengers were unharmed and quickly moved to other cars. The train continues to run on schedule, Ukrzaliznytsia reported. https://t.me/United24media/34066
An energy facility was also damaged, leaving part of the city without electricity.

Together with Saint Javelin, we're raising $150,000 towards
another AI-controlled turret — Saint Sentinel — to protect Ukrainians from
russian drones and missiles
(https://u24.gov.ua/allies-of-steel?utm_source=telegram&utm_medium=media&utm_campaign=allies).
This unit isn't quite a javelin, but it can shoot threats in the air with just as much precision and in semi-automatic mode. https://t.me/United24media/34067
Among those who help us strengthen Ukrainian air defenses, Saint Javelin will raffle off unique prizes:
• 10 custom T-shirts with a special Saint Sentinel print for a $10+ donation.
• A painting by Chris Shaw Studio, the author of the original Saint Javelin logo, for a $24+ donation.
As russia continues to launch deadly munitions targeting people and their homes, this unit will help Ukraine face these nightmarish challenges and save more lives.
Join us!
https://u24.gov.ua/allies-of-steel?utm_source=telegram&utm_medium=media&utm_campaign=allies

❗️In response to the extremely provocative statements of former Russian President Medvedev, I have ordered the deployment of two nuclear submarines to the relevant regions in case these statements prove to be more than just words, — Trump said. https://t.me/United24media/34069
Earlier, Medvedev hinted at an automatic system for launching Russian nuclear missiles at U.S. territory if a nuclear strike were carried out on Russian territory.

The Russian Federation struck a Molniya drone near an apartment building in the Kyivskyi district of Kharkiv, injuring 10 people, including a child. https://t.me/United24media/34070

President Zelenskyy spoke with people at the site of the destroyed nine-storey building in Kyiv’s Borshchahivka district. https://t.me/United24media/34071

😞 The Russian strike on Kyiv on the night of July 31 killed 31 people. https://t.me/United24media/34074

Since the beginning of the year, Russia has lost 112,500 soldiers and Ukraine 8,000, Trump said. https://t.me/United24media/34075

During July 2025, the air defense of the Defense Forces destroyed 6,262 air targets https://t.me/United24media/34076 :

▪️ 65 Kh-101/Kh-55SM cruise missiles
▪️ 19 Iskander-M/KN-23 ballistic missiles
▪️ 4 Kalibr cruise missiles
▪️ 9 Kh-59/69 guided aircraft missiles
▪️ 20 Iskander-K cruise missiles
▪️ 2,990 Shahed-type strike UAVs
▪️ 912 reconnaissance UAVs
▪️ 2,243 UAVs of other typesк

US Ambassador to NATO Matt Whitaker said that President Trump understands leverage better than anyone. https://t.me/United24media/34077
He noted that Trump’s statement about imposing devastating tariffs and sanctions on Russia on August 8 if there is no ceasefire carries weight.

US President Donald Trump confirmed his statement about ordering the deployment of nuclear submarines in response to Medvedev’s threats. https://t.me/United24media/34078
“Oh yes, we had to do it. Deploy them – nuclear submarines. We just have to be careful. The threat was made, and we consider it unacceptable. So I have to be very careful. I do it based on security considerations for our people. The threat was made by the former president of Russia, and we will protect our people,” Trump said.

Raytheon has received a $3.5 billion contract to produce AIM-120 AMRAAM air-to-air missiles for Ukraine, the United States, and 18 other foreign customers. https://t.me/United24media/34082
The contract will run until 2031.

Putin made his first public comments on the talks to end Russia’s aggression against Ukraine and Trump’s ultimatum during a visit to the Russian island of Valaam. https://t.me/United24media/34083
The Kremlin leader addressed those “disappointed” with Russia’s policy, without directly naming Trump or anyone else.
“As for any disappointments, they arise from excessive expectations. This is a well-known general rule,” he said.
He added that to end the aggression against Ukraine, it is necessary to “hold thorough conversations – not in public, but calmly, in the silence of the negotiation process.”

If India stops buying Russian oil, Moscow may shut down the CPC pipeline, Reuters reports. https://t.me/United24media/34084
The CPC transports up to 1 million barrels per day from Kazakhstan for U.S. and allied companies such as Chevron, Exxon, and Shell.
India now buys up to 2 million barrels per day, covering 35% of its imports, and is Russia’s largest oil buyer since 2022. Its refusal would hit Russia’s Urals grade and sharply reduce Moscow’s income.
A CPC shutdown and loss of Indian buyers could remove 3.5 million barrels per day from the market — about 3.5% of global supply. Analysts at JP Morgan warn oil prices could rise above $80 per barrel.
Lower exports could also force Russia to cut production and sell oil at even bigger discounts to countries like Egypt, Pakistan, and Malaysia.

Germany has announced the transfer of two Patriot systems to Ukraine. https://t.me/United24media/34085
After an agreement with the United States, the Bundeswehr will soon deliver additional Patriot launchers. Other elements of the systems will be handed over in two to three months.

The United States and NATO are discussing a new mechanism for supplying weapons to Ukraine, Reuters reports. https://t.me/United24media/34086
European NATO members would pay for American weapons, while Ukraine would name priority systems in tranches of about $500 million.
NATO allies, coordinated by Secretary General Rutte, would decide who provides or pays for items on the list.
The goal is to supply Ukraine with weapons worth about $10 billion, a European official said.

India’s largest oil refiner has bought millions of barrels of crude from the United States and the United Arab Emirates after pressure from Washington and Europe over its purchases from Russia — Bloomberg. https://t.me/United24media/34087
According to traders, state-owned Indian Oil Corp. (IOC) bought at least five million barrels of U.S. crude and two million barrels from Abu Dhabi. The purchases were large and relatively urgent by the company’s usual standards. State-owned refiners were instructed earlier this week to develop plans to buy non-Russian oil.
Indian refiners have been in the spotlight after the EU and the United States accused them of supporting Moscow by buying Russian oil. US President Donald Trump has repeatedly threatened to impose secondary tariffs on buyers of Russian oil, and earlier this week singled out India for criticism, saying it would pay an additional economic penalty for its current purchases.
The IOC has been seeking oil suppliers in a series of back-to-back tenders this week. It had also bought four million barrels of West African crude, as well as Murban crude from the UAE for delivery during the same period.
India has become the world’s largest buyer of Russian seaborne crude, buying the oil at a discount and increasing its purchases from almost nothing to about a third of its imports.

Russians attacked a village in Zaporizhzhia region, injuring two people who were hospitalized, said regional head Ivan Fedorov. https://t.me/United24media/34088
Up to 100 private houses were damaged — windows shattered, roofs and doors broken. A house, outbuildings, and the surrounding area caught fire, which emergency services have already localized.
A school and an outpatient clinic were also damaged. Emergency services are working on the scene, recording the damage and providing assistance, Fedorov added.

The Russian gas pipeline Central Asia – Center was damaged after explosions. https://t.me/United24media/34093
Gas transportation through the main pipeline in the Volgograd region has been stopped indefinitely.
The pipeline, owned by Gazprom, carries natural gas from Turkmenistan through Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan to Russia. It supplies energy to military facilities, including the Demikhov Machine-Building Plant, the MiG aircraft company, and the Magnum-K ammunition plant.

Live: Ukraine
Ukraine is proposing to move from exchanging statements and holding technical-level meetings to direct talks between leaders, President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced. https://t.me/liveukraine_media/33253
“We hear statements from Russia. If this is a signal of their genuine readiness to end the war with dignity and establish a truly lasting peace — and not merely an attempt to buy more time for war and delay sanctions — then Ukraine once again confirms its readiness for a meeting at the leadership level at any time,” the president stated.
Zelensky made the remark just hours after Putin commented on the earlier Istanbul negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, saying that “Russia is ready to wait if Kyiv believes now is not the time to negotiate.” The Kremlin added that its “goals and conditions regarding Ukraine, set in June 2024, remain unchanged” — conditions that effectively amount to Ukraine’s capitulation.

Combat medic Volodymyr Ryzhenko, known by his callsign “Sprite,” from the Azov Brigade has been recognized as Europe’s Best Military Medic. https://t.me/liveukraine_media/33254
A team of three medics from the 12th Azov Special Forces Brigade of the National Guard of Ukraine took part in the Combat Medical Care Conference 2025, Europe’s largest military medicine gathering, held in Germany.
“Sprite” received special honors, winning the “European Military Medic of the Year” award in the Military Medicine category.
He earned the award for an extraordinary life-saving operation in the winter of 2025, when he managed to save a fellow soldier’s life under extreme battlefield conditions by performing a blood transfusion using donor blood dropped by drone.
💻Microsoft has identified FSB-linked hackers spying on foreign embassies in Moscow https://t.me/liveukraine_media/33255
The group, known as Secret Blizzard or Turla, used Russian internet service providers to conduct cyberattacks. They disguised their malware as antivirus software from the Russian company Kaspersky.
After gaining access to local ISPs, the hackers targeted foreign embassies in Moscow, redirecting victims’ internet traffic and deploying malware as part of an intelligence-gathering operation.
Secret Blizzard has been active for over 25 years and is considered one of the world’s most persistent cyber-espionage groups. The U.S. government classifies it as a unit of Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB).
In 2023, the U.S. Department of Justice announced it had dismantled a vast global network of computers used by the group for cyberattacks in support of Russian state interests.
Photo: Bloomberg / Getty Images

Ukrainian artist wins lawsuit against HBO over unauthorized use of his work in “Chornobyl” series https://t.me/liveukraine_media/33256
Creative director Andrii Pryimachenko has reached a settlement with HBO in a New York court after the company used his artwork in the Chernobyl miniseries without crediting him as the author. The legal battle lasted over six years.

A Russian “Gerbera” drone that flew in from Belarus earlier this week has been found in Lithuania https://t.me/liveukraine_media/33259
The wreckage of the unmanned aerial vehicle was discovered today by Lithuanian military personnel at the Gaižiūnai training ground, according to LRT.

⚡️⚡️Medvedev’s statements forced Trump to deploy two nuclear submarines to “appropriate regions”. https://t.me/liveukraine_media/33260
The U.S. President announced this on his social media, responding to recent remarks by Dmitry Medvedev.

Putin gives first public comment on peace talks and Trump’s ultimatum during visit to Valaam https://t.me/liveukraine_media/33261
During a visit to Russia’s Valaam Island, Vladimir Putin made his first public remarks on negotiations to end the war against Ukraine and the recent ultimatum from Donald Trump.
The Kremlin leader addressed those who are “disappointed” with Russia’s policies—without directly naming Trump or anyone else.
“As for any disappointments from whoever they may be, all disappointments stem from excessive expectations. That’s a well-known general rule,” he said.
According to Putin, ending Russia’s aggression against Ukraine would require “serious, substantive conversations—not in public, but quietly, in the calm of negotiation rooms.”

The Telegraph: Russia’s nuclear submarine base in Kamchatka was damaged by a tsunami. https://t.me/liveukraine_media/33262
Tsunami waves struck the Rybachiy base — satellite images show part of the pier was displaced from its original position, which could hinder the movement of vessels in and out of the facility.
The base is known to host the latest Borei-class submarines as well as Soviet-era Delta-class subs. Preliminary reports suggest they remained undamaged.

Lukashenko, during a meeting with Putin, once again urged the EU to abandon confrontation and cooperate with Russia. https://t.me/liveukraine_media/33263
“They shouldn’t be locking horns with us — they should be working together. The European Union and Russia. If we united, it would be a real force. But (EU politicians) don’t understand this,” he said.
According to Lukashenko, however, such cooperation will never be allowed by the Americans.

🇺🇸🇺🇦 The U.S. Senate has proposed a new aid package for Ukraine worth over $50 billion. https://t.me/liveukraine_media/33264
According to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, the bill was introduced by Senators Jeanne Shaheen (Democrat) and Lisa Murkowski (Republican).
The draft legislation allocates $54.6 billion over the next two years. Around one-third of this support is expected to be funded through confiscated Russian assets and proceeds from arms sales to European countries. The bill also stipulates that Ukraine will receive $30 billion in security assistance over the next two fiscal years.
Additionally, the proposal seeks to expand the list of weaponry that President Donald Trump could transfer directly to Ukraine from U.S. military stockpiles — without congressional approval — up to $6 billion, under his executive powers.

Russia lost 20,000 troops in July alone, claims Trump https://t.me/liveukraine_media/33265
According to the U.S. President, Russia’s total military losses since the beginning of the year amount to 112,500, while Ukraine’s stand at 8,000. Trump did not specify the sources of these figures.

American singer Azealia Banks mocked the condition of a Mariupol defender after three years in Russian captivity. https://t.me/liveukraine_media/33266
In response, Marine from the 36th Brigade and senior sniper platoon sergeant Oleksandr Kiriienko published a video address to the American artist on Facebook.

Fighting for Ukraine, members of Mexican cartels are mastering FPV drones. https://t.me/liveukraine_media/33268
The technological breakthrough in drone warfare, where Ukraine has taken the lead, is poised to have far-reaching consequences worldwide. One of these consequences, as reported by the American outlet The War Zone, is that Mexican drug cartels are becoming more combat-capable. Among the foreign fighters in Ukraine’s International Legion are Mexicans who joined specifically to learn how to operate FPV drones and understand their capabilities. After completing their service, they plan to bring this knowledge back to Mexico and pass it on to drug traffickers.
According to journalists, Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) has received intelligence from Mexican counterparts warning about the potential spread of these dangerous technologies, posing a significant threat to Mexico’s national security. Additionally, as noted by Intelligence Online, supporters of Colombia’s FARC terrorist group are also reportedly gaining FPV expertise in Ukraine.
Cartels are already using FPV drones, mainly in battles against rival groups. Images of drones have surfaced on social media, found in coastal Mexican cities known for intense drug wars. These drones are capable of targeting both individuals and so-called “narco-tanks” — improvised armored vehicles cartels use to navigate high-risk areas. In Central America, these vehicles are known as monstruos.
The SBU acknowledges that foreign fighters could be spreading sensitive military technologies globally. “We invited volunteers with good intentions,” a Ukrainian official told Intelligence Online. “But now we must admit that Ukraine has become a platform for the global proliferation of FPV tactics. Some people come here to learn how to kill with a $400 drone, only to later sell that knowledge to the highest bidder.”

Overnight, drones attacked several regions of Russia. https://t.me/liveukraine_media/33269
📍In the Samara region, a refinery in Novokuybyshevsk was hit, causing a fire. Mobile internet access was restricted in the area.
📍In Penza, the Elektropribor enterprise was targeted, with eight explosions reported in the city. Penza’s airport temporarily suspended takeoffs and landings.
📍In Ryazan, according to Telegram channels, a refinery was also attacked. The governor confirmed that drone debris “fell on the premises of an industrial facility.”
📍In Primorsko-Akhtarsk (Krasnodar Krai), a fire broke out near a military airfield following a drone strike.
Russia’s Ministry of Defense claims that their air defense forces shot down 112 drones during the night.

Ukraine’s Air Force reports that air defense forces neutralized 45 out of 53 drones launched by Russia overnight. https://t.me/liveukraine_media/33274
According to the Air Force, Ukrainian air defenses shot down or suppressed 8 jet-powered UAVs and 37 Shahed-type drones and decoy UAVs over northern, southern, eastern, and central regions of the country.
There were confirmed hits by 8 drones in 5 locations, as well as debris falling in two other areas.

In Vinnytsia, people protested at night outside a stadium where the Territorial Recruitment and Social Support Center (TRC) allegedly brought men. https://t.me/liveukraine_media/33275
People began gathering around 11 p.m. near the walls of the Lokomotyv Stadium after a livestream appeared online showing a crowd demanding the release of men who were allegedly being held there.
Residents attempted to break through the doors, chanting: “Come out, guys!”, while law enforcement carried out detentions.
Local media reported that earlier in the morning, about 100 men were brought to the stadium for mobilization procedures. Later, Suspilne (a Ukrainian public broadcaster) citing sources, reported that shortly before the end of the curfew, the men who had been on the stadium’s premises started being taken away.
The police stated that the conflict between citizens and law enforcement arose after the detention of a man who was on the wanted list for evading military service. Representatives of an unnamed organization broke down the gates and tried to force their way inside.

Russian forces shelled the center of Sloviansk with Shahed drones. https://t.me/liveukraine_media/33277
“One of the city’s landmarks — the Sloviansk Hotel — was damaged. Nearby apartment buildings and a dormitory were also affected,” said Vadym Liakh, Head of the City Military Administration.
One person was injured.

Druzhkivka, Donetsk oblast. This morning, the Russian army struck a market crowded with people. https://t.me/liveukraine_media/33281
The information regarding casualties and injuries is being clarified.

Kyiv Post
Russia continues to gradually neutralize the influence of
the Wagner PMC in Africa, (https://www.kyivpost.com/post/57373) which became an
acknowledged threat following its Prigozhin-led mutiny in 2023. https://t.me/Kyivpost_official/30998

Two senior officers ‘disappear’ in notorious Russian unit https://t.me/Kyivpost_official/30999
(https://www.kyivpost.com/post/57381) accused of torturing texan to death.

Ukraine’s Main Intelligence Directorate (HUR) has publicly named the Russian officer responsible for the deadly drone strikes on Ukrainian cities. https://t.me/Kyivpost_official/31000
(https://www.kyivpost.com/post/57396) 

Trump claims he’s seen internal data showing catastrophic Russian losses in 2024, with over 122,000 troops killed, compared to 8,000 Ukrainian soldiers. https://t.me/Kyivpost_official/31001

At least 10 civilians have been injured in Kharkiv, including three children, after a Russian “Molniya” drone struck a busy residential area. https://t.me/Kyivpost_official/31002
Rescue efforts are ongoing.

“Medvedev [former Russian President] was talking about nuclear, when you talk about nuclear we have to be prepared. We are totally prepared,” — Trump https://t.me/Kyivpost_official/31003

One of the largest drone attacks of the war hit multiple
Russian regions, (https://www.kyivpost.com/post/57413) damaging a defense
factory, igniting oil refineries, and prompting air raid alerts across the
country. https://t.me/Kyivpost_official/31004

Agreed..

I haven't heard the podcast but my take on this is obvious reasons very little gets said about the nuclear boats.

It's doubtful if POTUS gets much input in the fine detail such as where the boats sit, and given the range of the ordnance they carry it's probably almost the case that they are equally effective whether parked in the somewhere in North Atlantic or just off Murmansk.

A nuclear submarine is a submarine that is propelled by nuclear power provided by a nuclear reactor, the advantage over diesel powered ones being that it doesn't need air to run it and so doesn't need to come to the surface.

It may or may not be armed with nuclear warheads.

I am not sure Trump would know this.

I think the most Trump knows about submarines is that you can play with them in the bath….

He takes baths? Gosh.

hey, I'm back.

Thank you very much for looking after the thread.

@notimagain it's years since I've been to France - damn, Brittany is soooo beautiful!

Kyiv Independent Telegram Highlights

⚡️Zelensky urges (kyivindependent.com/putin-dismisses-frustration-over-peace-talks-as-excessive-expectations/) direct leader-level peace talks as Putin blames 'excessive expectations'.

Moscow proposes vague new peace talks format as Trump's rhetoric hardens further
(kyivindependent.com/moscow-proposes-vague-new-peace-talks-format-as-trumps-rhetoric-hardens-further/)
Russia is floating a new negotiation framework just a week before U.S. President Donald Trump's self-imposed deadline to end the war in Ukraine arrives.

⚡️Senate leaves without sanctions vote (kyivindependent.com/senate-leaves-without-sanctions-vote-as-republicans-urge-more-pressure-on-russia-hill-reports/) as Republicans urge more pressure on Russia, The Hill reports.
Republican senators left Washington for their August recess without passing a major Russia sanctions bill, effectively handing Donald Trump full authority to decide whether to follow through on his threat to penalize Moscow.

Trump's India tariffs show Russia's allies 'he will act' if Ukraine ultimatums ignored, experts say
(kyivindependent.com/trumps-india-tariffs-show-russias-allies-he-will-act-if-ukraine-ultimatums-ignored-experts-say/)
Escalating pressure on countries that continue buying Russian oil, Trump imposed 25% tariffs on Indian imports, a policy that came into effect on Aug.1.

⚡️India to keep buying Russian oil (kyivindependent.com/india-to-keep-buying-russian-oil-despite-trump-threats-nyt-reports/) despite Trump threats, NYT reports.
The Indian government has "not given any direction to oil companies" to reduce Russian imports, one senior official told the New York Times.

⚡️US, NATO developing (kyivindependent.com/us-nato-developing-new-funding-mechanism-for-ukraine-weapons-deliveries-reuters-reports/) new funding mechanism for Ukraine weapons deliveries, Reuters reports.
The reported mechanism will allow Kyiv to prioritize weaponry needs under its Priority Ukraine Requirements List (PURL), Reuters reported on Aug. 1, with arms being delivered in tranches of about $500 million. Spearheaded by alliance Secretary General Mark Rutte, NATO allies would then negotiate among themselves as to who would pay for weapons on the list.

Inside the Battle of Kostiantynivka, as Ukrainian forces brace for three-sided Russian assault
(kyivindependent.com/inside-the-battle-of-kostiantynivka-as-ukrainian-forces-brace-for-three-sided-russian-assault/)
As recently as four months ago, the drab streets of the city of Kostiantynivka were full of life. With all the trademark signs of a buzzing front-line hub — from dozens of soldiers lining up for coffee and pizza after coming back from positions to hardy civilians living, working and playing as usual — the true war was close, but never quite here.

⚡️Russian troops resort to 'total infiltration' (kyivindependent.com/russian-troops-resort-to-total-infiltration-tactics-in-front-line-pokrovsk-ukraines-commander-in-chief-says/) tactics in front-line Pokrovsk, Ukraine's commander-in-chief says.
Russian forces are "looking for vulnerabilities in our defense, and conducting active combat operations in several directions simultaneously," Commander-in-chief Oleksandr Syrskyi reported.

⚡️Russia damages bridge in Kherson Oblast (kyivindependent.com/russia-damages-bridge-in-kherson-oblast-governor-urges-evacuations/), governor urges evacuations.
A Russian airstrike damaged a key bridge in Ukraine's Kherson Oblast on Aug. 2, prompting local officials to urge residents to evacuate.

⚡️Explosions, smoke reported near Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant (kyivindependent.com/explosions-smoke-reported-near-russian-occupied-zaporizhzhia-nuclear-plant/).

Exclusive: After international pressure, Ukraine's government likely to appoint economic watchdog head next week (kyivindependent.com/exclusive-after-international-pressure-ukraines-government-likely-to-appoint-economic-watchdog-head-next-week/)
Ukraine’s economic crimes watchdog nominee said he is likely to be appointed next week following international pressure on the government to accept his candidacy.
Oleksandr Tsyvinsky, who was nominated by an independent selection committee on June 27, agreed to take a polygraph test to prove that he has no ties to Russia after a what he called a "constructive" phone call with Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko on Aug. 1, Tsyvinsky told the Kyiv Independent.

⚡️Ukraine aims to secure all EU aid (kyivindependent.com/ukraine-aims-to-get-back-all-eu-aid-planned-for-2025-economy-minister-says/) planned for 2025, economy minister says.
Kyiv has submitted an updated version of the Ukraine Plan for the European Commission's consideration, following the EU's decision to cut the next tranche of the Ukraine Facility due to incomplete reforms.

⚡️At least four oil tankers carrying Russian crude are idling off India's western coast as Indian refiners reconsider purchases under sanction pressure from the United States and the European Union. (https://kyivindependent.com/russian-oil-tankers-linger-near-india-as-refiners-seek-alternatives-bloomberg-reports/) 

⚡️Russia's industrial activity falls (kyivindependent.com/russias-industrial-activity-falls-to-lowest-level-since-2022-reuters-reports/) to lowest level since 2022, Reuters reports.
Despite heavy militarization and a surge in state defense orders since the start of the war against Ukraine, Russia's industrial production growth has begun to slow.

⚡️Russia begins production of hypersonic missile (kyivindependent.com/russia-begins-production-of-hypersonic-missile-plans-deployment-to-belarus/), plans deployment to Belarus.

⚡️Drone strikes hit industrial sites in several Russian regions (kyivindependent.com/drones-strike-industrial-sites-across-russia/).
A series of drone attacks targeted industrial facilities in Russia's Ryazan, Penza, and Samara oblasts overnight on Aug. 2, according to local media and regional officials.

⚡️Ukraine to move (kyivindependent.com/ukraine-moves-forward-with-long-delayed-customs-reform-commission-to-be-formed-for-new-chief/) forward with long-delayed customs reform, commission to be formed for new chief.
"Customs must become a modern service-oriented institution that meets European Union standards and works with full integrity to support the state budget," Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko said.

⚡️'Words are very important,' — Trump orders (kyivindependent.com/words-are-very-important-trump-orders-nuclear-submarines-deployed-after-medvedevs-threats/) nuclear submarines deployed after Medvedev's threats.
"Based on the highly provocative statements of the Former President of Russia, Dmitry Medvedev, who is now the Deputy Chairman of the Security Council of the Russian Federation, I have ordered two Nuclear Submarines to be positioned in the appropriate regions," U.S. President Donald Trump wrote on Truth Social.

⚡️Ukraine's anti-corruption agencies uncover bribery scheme (kyivindependent.com/ukraines-anti-corruption-agencies-uncover-bribery-scheme-involving-lawmaker-officials-soldiers/) involving lawmaker, officials, soldiers.
The officials involved — including a member of Ukraine's parliament —allegedly appropriated funds intended for the procurement of drones and electronic warfare (EW) equipment.

⚡️Russian nuclear submarine (kyivindependent.com/russian-nuclear-submarine-base-hit-by-tsunami-satellite-images-reveal/) base hit by tsunami, satellite images reveal.
The waves reportedly hit the Rybachiy naval base, which houses the bulk of the nuclear submarines in Russia's Pacific Fleet, according to images taken by the Umbra Space satellite the morning after the tsunami.

⚡️20,000 Russian troops killed (kyivindependent.com/20-000-russian-troops-killed-in-july-alone-trump-says/) in July alone, Trump says.
The U.S. president added that Ukraine has suffered an estimated 8,000 military deaths since January, not including missing personnel.

With all eyes on Kyiv, its surrounding villages are unspoken victims of Russian attacks
(kyivindependent.com/with-all-eyes-on-kyiv-its-surrounding-villages-are-unspoken-victims-of-russian-attacks/)
As Russia ramps up its aerial strikes, the villages surrounding Kyiv have become more than just a transit route for Russian drones targeting the capital. But if attacks on Kyiv make international headlines, the villages suffer in relative obscurity.

⚡️Ukraine's drone strike reportedly sparks fire (kyivindependent.com/ukraines-drone-strike-reportedly-sparks-fire-at-oil-depot-in-russias-sochi/) at oil depot in Russia’s Sochi.
A drone strike resulted in a major fire early on Aug. 3 at an oil depot in Russia’s resort city of Sochi, setting ablaze a 2,000-cubic-meter fuel tank, local authorities said.

⚡️ HIV rates among Russian soldiers (kyivindependent.com/hiv-rates-among-russian-soldiers-surge-2-000-since-start-of-full-scale-invasion-of-ukraine/) surge 2,000% since start of full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
"There is no objective reason why HIV should be decreasing across the world — except in Russia," the report from Carnegie Politika said. [I suspect the rates of HIV transmission will be far higher among Ukrainians in the occupied territories then, too :/ ]

⚡️Update: Parliament dismisses MP (kyivindependent.com/ukraines-anti-corruption-agencies-uncover-bribery-scheme-involving-lawmaker-officials-soldiers/) from Zelensky's faction due to corruption probe.
Oleksii Kuznetsov, a member of parliament who belongs to Zelensky's Servant of the People party, allegedly accepted kickbacks for inflating military contracts. He has been dismissed from his parliamentary faction pending the outcome of the case.

⚡️Ukraine awards (kyivindependent.com/ukraine-awards-order-of-freedom-to-journalist-roshchyna-killed-in-russian-captivity/) Order of Freedom to journalist killed in Russian captivity.

⚡️Ukraine's military intelligence, partisans blow up bus (kyivindependent.com/ukraines-military-intelligence-partisans-blow-up-bus-carrying-chechen-soldiers-in-occupied-melitopol/) carrying Chechen soldiers in occupied Melitopol ... killing all five soldiers of the Russian-backed Akhmat unit on board.

⚡️Russian drone attack on Kharkiv injures 10, infant and children (kyivindependent.com/russian-drone-attack-on-kharkiv-injures-10-infant-and-children-among-victims/) among victims.
The victims include a 5-month-old baby, along with a 9-year-old and 10-year-old boy, Kharkiv Oblast Governor Oleh Syniehubov reported. Five of the 10 victims have been hospitalized.

⚡️As search efforts conclude, Russia's attack on Kyiv becomes most deadly (kyivindependent.com/massive-fires-reported-in-kyiv-amid-russias-latest-drone-attack/) on capital this year with 31 civilians killed.

⚡️Russian drone attack (kyivindependent.com/russian-drone-attack-on-druzhkivka-in-donetsk-oblast-injures-at-least-5/) on Druzhkivka in Donetsk Oblast injures 5.

⚡️Russian drone strike kills child (kyivindependent.com/russian-drone-strike-kills-child-in-sumy-oblast/) in Sumy Oblast.
The attack on the border village of Svesa killed a 12-year-old boy and left a 13-year-old hospitalized with shrapnel wounds, Governor Oleh Hryhorov reported.

⚡️Russian attacks (kyivindependent.com/russian-attacks-against-ukraine-kill-6-injure-37-over-past-day/) kill 6, injure 37 in Ukraine over past day.
Ukrainian forces downed 45 out of the 53 drones, including Shahed-type attack drones, rocket-powered drones and decoys, launched by Russia overnight, the Air Force reported.

Ragnar Bjartur Gudmundsson 🇺🇦‬ ‪@ragnarbjartur.bsky.social‬
· 51m
⚡️ WAR IN UKRAINE & RUSSIA — AUG 3, 2025
■ Engagements & casualties below average
■ Land-based equipment losses well above average; drones slightly above
■ Double-digit 🇺🇦 strikes; single-digit strike ratio
■ Overnight attacks: 73% intercepted (below average)

UNITED24 Media Telegram Highlights

Russian forces are likely restoring Donetsk airport as a base for Shaheds, the Military Journal Telegram channel reported.
According to the channel, the destroyed airport is probably being prepared for use as a platform for attack drones.
Fortifications that previously blocked the runway have already been filled in, which may indicate plans to reuse it. Construction work is also underway in the former parking areas, presumably to create a fuel and technical base for servicing UAVs, including Shaheds.

The Russian gas pipeline Central Asia – Center was damaged after explosions.
Gas transportation through the main pipeline in the Volgograd region has been stopped indefinitely.
The pipeline, owned by Gazprom, carries natural gas from Turkmenistan through Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan to Russia. It supplies energy to military facilities, including the Demikhov Machine-Building Plant, the MiG aircraft company, and the Magnum-K ammunition plant.

Estonia is installing barriers on the border with Russia, ERR reports.
Metal gates have been placed on the Friendship Bridge from Ivangorod to Narva on the Estonian side. Preparations are underway to install retractable metal barriers that can block car entry if needed.
The work is expected to be completed by the end of September.
Earlier, Estonia began building bunkers and digging anti-tank ditches on the border. Finland is also preparing for a possible Russian invasion by building a 200‑kilometer fence.

British Foreign Secretary David Lammy said that Putin is not ready for serious negotiations, so the war in Ukraine is unlikely to end within a year.
He noted that Putin still has “maximalist and imperial ambitions.”
“My sober assessment is that he is not yet ready for serious negotiations. I think in a year there will already be talks, but the question is how seriously Russia will take them,” Lammy said.
He emphasized that support for Ukraine from Britain, the US and the EU remains a key element of European security.

Putin is more likely to start a nuclear war than many admit, The Telegraph writes.
The Russian leadership’s nuclear threats have long been part of an information war to intimidate the West, and they have worked. Western countries have been cautious since Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, partly because of these threats.
Trump’s recent decision to move two nuclear submarines closer to Russia was a direct response to Dmitry Medvedev’s social media posts. Medvedev, often mocked even in Russia, has become a “war dog” of the regime, making aggressive threats. The article notes that Trump’s public reaction shows that Moscow can provoke him into real action by irritating him online.
The risk of Putin ordering a nuclear strike remains small but not zero. Russia’s so‑called “escalation to de‑escalate” doctrine envisions first a “demonstration strike” on water, then on a sparsely populated land target, then on a military target, before escalating to multiple tactical nuclear strikes.
While Russia’s 2014 doctrine allowed nuclear use only in response to a nuclear attack or a threat to the country’s existence, later documents lowered this threshold. In 2020, Moscow allowed a nuclear strike if it faced an “imminent nuclear attack” or lost control of its arsenal after conventional strikes. Last year, Putin added that conventional missile attacks on Russia could justify a nuclear response.
The Telegraph concludes that the West’s best option is to keep helping Ukraine, especially with air defense, so that it can fight Russia to a standstill and eventually force Putin to end the war.

Kyiv Post Telegram Highlights [from last 2-3 days]

“No progress” — White House patience with Putin “exhausted” (www.kyivpost.com/post/57331) after failed talks, Rubio says.

Zelensky, who continues to count on Warsaw as a “reliable partner and ally,” said he had a good call with Poland’s new president Nawrocki (www.kyivpost.com/post/57324) – but Poland’s tone is less optimistic.

Deadlier, Faster, Invisible: The drones used in Thursday’s deadly strike on Kyiv were faster, harder to detect, and more precise (www.kyivpost.com/post/57347) — raising fears that Russia has entered a new, more lethal phase of its air war.

Germany announced on Friday that it will soon begin delivering two additional US-made Patriot (www.kyivpost.com/post/57363) air defense systems to Ukraine, as Kyiv faces an intensifying wave of Russian drone and missile attacks.

Ukraine’s Main Intelligence Directorate (HUR) has publicly named the Russian officer responsible for the deadly drone strikes on Ukrainian cities. (https://www.kyivpost.com/post/57396)

Nicaragua, the Kremlin’s longtime-ally from the late days of the Cold War, just became one of the first countries to recognize Moscow’s (www.kyivpost.com/post/57330) land grab in Ukraine.

This week: Iran tests S-400, Kyiv hit by deadly strike, Trump pressures Putin, Aeroflot hacked, POWs mourned, and China, Russia plan drills - plus more top headlines.

Deadly Russian drones early Sunday morning attacked Kharkiv region cities of Chuhuiv and Balakliya, (www.kyivpost.com/post/57448) starting fires, with casualties reported.

Russia continues to gradually neutralize the influence of the Wagner PMC in Africa, (www.kyivpost.com/post/57373) which became an acknowledged threat following its Prigozhin-led mutiny in 2023.

Two senior officers ‘disappear’ in notorious Russian unit (www.kyivpost.com/post/57381) accused of torturing texan to death.

Live: Ukraine Telegram Highlights

Ukraine’s military intelligence (HUR) has obtained classified data on Russia’s newest nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine “Knyaz Pozharsky” of the Project 955A “Borei-A” class.
Submarines of this class are equipped with 16 launch tubes for intercontinental ballistic missiles, each capable of carrying up to 10 warheads. The “Knyaz Pozharsky” was commissioned into Russia’s Northern Fleet in July of this year.
Ukraine’s military intelligence now possesses full crew rosters, combat manuals, and detailed ship schematics, including crew placement instructions for cabins and berthing areas, procedures for evacuating wounded personnel and transferring cargo, engineering documentation, and excerpts from the ship’s duty schedules.

Budanov: Putin's successor will not change anything - the system is ready for anything
⏺ Russia is planning the largest rearmament program since 1980;
⏺ Maybe we will reach the mass use of AI in war and people will not be very needed;
⏺ Iran was bombed to show the whole world that US can do it - this amazed Putin;
⏺ Belarus and Georgia options for Ukraine are unlikely to satisfy society. The "Israelization" options for development are probably better. We need to think about how to live on in the current conditions.

Occupiers struck Kherson with guided aerial bombs (KABs), damaging a road bridge.
Two airstrikes were carried out around 6:00 p.m., according to regional governor Oleksandr Prokudin. The attack caused damage to a road bridge leading to the Korabel neighborhood.
Additionally, the Russian army severely damaged three private homes and a multi-storey apartment building. No casualties have been reported at this time.
Due to damage inflicted by the occupiers on the bridge, delivering food supplies to the Korabel neighborhood will be challenging, said regional governor Oleksandr Prokudin.

Druzhkivka, Donetsk oblast. [Yesterday] morning, the Russian army struck a market crowded with people.
The information regarding casualties and injuries is being clarified

At least seven people have been injured in Druzhkivka, Donetsk region, following a drone strike.

A wounded Ukrainian soldier was rescued with the help of a drone delivering him an electric bicycle.
The serviceman had been holding a defensive position at the 360 sector for five days, unable to evacuate on his own. An electric bicycle weighing 40 kilograms was air-dropped directly to his position, allowing him to escape.

For the first time in 600 years, the Krasheninnikov volcano on Kamchatka, Russia, has begun erupting
An ash plume from the volcano has risen several kilometers into the sky. There is currently no threat to local residents.
The last eruption of Krasheninnikov occurred around 1463 and is believed to have lasted for about 80 years.
▪️A few days ago, a powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 8.8 struck the Kamchatka Peninsula.

Welcome back @DucklingSwimmingInstructress ! Hope you had a good break.

https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-august-2-2025

Key Takeaways:

• Ukraine conducted a series of long-range drone strikes against energy infrastructure in Russia on the night of August 1 to 2.
• Ukraine also conducted a series of long-range drone strikes against Russia's defense industrial base (DIB), drone launch sites, and air defense systems on the night of August 1 to 2.
• The Kremlin has yet to employ a coordinated response to US President Donald Trump’s August 1 announcement that he ordered the deployment of two US nuclear submarines closer to Russia.
• Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov parroted many of the same talking points that Russian President Vladimir Putin and Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko made during a press event on August 1 that blamed Ukraine for the lack of progress in negotiations and signaled Russia's unyielding commitment to its longstanding demands.
• Ukrainian forces recently advanced near Novopavlivka and in western Zaporizhia Oblast, and Russian forces recently advanced near Toretsk.

It was very nice, though unfortunately a couple of visual health issues surfaced. My oldest son is autistic and a bit obsessed with zombies, at this rate he'll soon see one next to him every time he sits down at the dinner table.

Other than that the airbnb house was amazing, the food super, the beaches ace and it was just generally absolutely lovely.

@DucklingSwimmingInstructress apart from zombies, sounds like the perfect family holiday!

Forgot to add UK Defence Intelligence update

Welcome back Ducks. I'm glad that you had a good break.

https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-august-3-2025

Key Takeaways:

• Ukrainian forces struck an oil depot in Krasnodar Krai on August 3.
• Russia is reportedly preparing to expand its use of occupied Ukraine to launch Shahed-type drone strikes against Ukraine.
• Russia appears to be trying to better protect its air bases after multiple years of Ukrainian strikes against the Russian rear.
• Russian intelligence services appear to be reassessing and possibly innovating their sabotage operations in Europe.
• Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky appointed Lieutenant General Anatoliy Kryvonozhko as the Commander of the Ukrainian Air Force on August 3.
• Ukrainian forces recently advanced in western Zaporizhia Oblast. Russian forces recently advanced in the Lyman, Pokrovsk, and Novopavlivka directions.

Live:Ukraine

🇪🇪 Estonia is constructing gates and barriers on the border with Russia in Narva.

The measures aim to ensure the border, which crosses a bridge, can be completely sealed off if necessary.

According to the head of the Narva border checkpoint, there was an incident five years ago when a vehicle from the Russian side broke through the existing barriers. He added that the new fortifications will allow for better control in case of a potential migration attack on the bridge crossing. (Photos below)

🇬🇧 UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy admitted feeling guilty upon learning about the argument between Presidents Zelenskyy and Trump that took place in the Oval Office at the end of February.

“To be honest, I thought: arrrr! Why didn’t I do more to support our Ukrainian colleagues in preparing for this meeting?” Lammy said.

He explained that the Ukrainian delegation had been invited at the last minute, while the British side was focused on their own meeting with Trump and didn’t have time to assist.

🔹 By 2030, Poland will possess approximately 1,100 tanks.

Recently, it was announced that Warsaw will acquire an additional 180 South Korean K2 tanks. According to Euronews, once the €6 billion deal is finalized, Poland’s tank fleet will total around 1,100 units. The country currently allocates the highest percentage of GDP to defense among NATO members — 4.7%.

▪️At present, Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom, and France combined operate around 950 tanks. Greece maintains a fleet of 1,344 tanks, while Turkey has 2,238 tanks.

🇷🇴In Romania, ammunition boxes exploded at a weapons factory due to a fire. Sabotage is among the possible causes.

A fire broke out at the Kujir Mechanical Plant on the evening of August 2 and was extinguished by 5 a.m. the next day. The flames triggered explosions of ammunition boxes, with preliminary damages estimated at €400,000.

At least 150,000 machine gun rounds were destroyed, and another 250,000 may now be unfit for use. The cause of the fire remains unknown, and law enforcement has launched a criminal investigation.

Romania’s Minister of Economy has not ruled out the possibility of sabotage. He stated that conclusions can only be drawn after expert analysis, but “all scenarios are being considered.”

🇲🇩Moldova’s Central Election Commission has registered a bloc including the party of pro-Russian ex-president Igor Dodon for the upcoming parliamentary elections.

The bloc, named “Patriotic Socialists, Heart and Future of Moldova,” includes the Socialist Party led by former President Igor Dodon.

Registering the bloc for the elections does not automatically grant it official candidate status. The bloc’s representatives must submit a list of parliamentary candidates to the CEC, after which the commission will decide on its official registration as an election participant.

Dodon is known for his controversial statements regarding Russia’s war against Ukraine. He has claimed that “all sides are to blame for the conflict.” When asked about the status of Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, Luhansk, and Kherson regions, Dodon replied that “the outcome of peace negotiations will determine where the war stops.”

🔸 An icon depicting the “special military operation” has appeared at the Valaam Monastery in Russia, showing a Russian soldier bandaging a wounded Ukrainian.

A new icon dedicated to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has been spotted in the Church of the Smolensk Icon of the Mother of God on the grounds of the Valaam Monastery. The image caught public attention after being featured in a Russia-1 television report.

The broadcast coincided with the recent visit of Vladimir Putin and Alexander Lukashenko to Valaam. The report mentioned that the church commemorates Russian soldiers of all eras, including those participating in the so-called “special military operation.” The footage shows a fresco where a Russian soldier, wearing a uniform with a “Z” insignia on his sleeve, is providing medical aid to a wounded Ukrainian soldier who has a bloodied, bandaged head and a Ukrainian flag patch on his clothing.

The two figures are depicted holding hands and gazing at an iconographic image described by journalists as the Holy Mandylion (the Icon of the Savior Not Made by Hands). The report emphasizes that “the Orthodox Church, as it did a century ago, continues to spiritually support Russia’s army.” During the visit, a clergyman was also heard calling on the high-ranking guests to pray “for our Russian land, for the Slavic peoples, for God’s truth, and for peace.” (Photo 3)

🇺🇸 Trump’s Special Envoy Steve Witkoff may visit Russia on August 6 or 7, according to Donald Trump.

“I think next week, on Wednesday or Thursday, [Witkoff] might go to Russia. They wanted to see him. They requested a meeting, so we’ll see what happens,” the U.S. president said.

Trump added that Steve Witkoff is currently focused on Gaza, working to ensure food supplies for people. He also once again commented on potential sanctions against Russia.

“Sanctions will be imposed, but it seems they’re pretty good at avoiding them. They’re clever characters, and they’ve been quite successful at dodging sanctions, so we’ll see how it goes,” Trump remarked.

▪️On July 29, Trump stated that Washington would introduce new tariffs and secondary sanctions against Russia within ten days if Moscow fails to reach a ceasefire agreement with Ukraine. This sets Russia’s deadline at August 8.

🔹 Ukrainian drones targeted a railway hub in Russia’s Volgograd region, according to the regional governor.

The attack hit the Archeda railway station in the city of Frolovo, Volgograd region. The governor stated that the strike targeted the transport and energy sectors.

A technical building at the station caught fire, with Telegram channels specifying that the blaze broke out in the dispatch center.

The governor also reported that one of the drones fell onto the railway tracks without detonating, leading to a temporary suspension of train traffic in the area. In the Ilovlya district, debris from another drone damaged a high-voltage power line. Energy crews are working to restore electricity to the settlement of Ilovlya and nearby villages.

Russia’s Ministry of Defense claims that their air defenses allegedly shot down 61 drones overnight, including 11 over temporarily occupied Crimea.

United 24 Media:

🔹 In Kyiv, a massive Russian attack on the night of July 31 destroyed the warehouse of the Lithuanian humanitarian aid organization Blue/Yellow for Ukraine.

At the time of the strike, the premises were almost empty. Only personal protective equipment such as helmets and vests for employees and medics was stored there.

🔸 There is an agreement with Russia on the exchange of 1,200 people, and work on the lists is ongoing, Zelenskyy said.
NSDC Secretary Rustem Umerov reported to the president on contacts with the Russian representative. Work is also underway to unblock the return of civilians, and data on each person is being verified.

🔹 “This administration is committed to a lasting, strong and stable peace in the region. We will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with Ukraine,” said American State Department Deputy Spokesperson Mignon Houston.

🔸 After the Ukrainian operation “Spider Web,” the Russians began moving combat aircraft between airfields almost daily, while transport aircraft were relocated to remote airfields in Siberia, OSINT researcher Athene Noctua reported.

Satellite images he analyzed show that Russian military transport aircraft started being moved away from Ukraine in the second half of 2023 to protect them from drones. This process has now intensified.

The Taganrog airfield has fully turned into a base for attack aircraft — all transport planes have been withdrawn.

Almost all Il-76s have been removed from the Pskov airfield, where several of these aircraft were destroyed or damaged in 2023.

At the Tver airfield, likely only faulty An-22s remain, as Il-76s have been withdrawn.

Transport aircraft are mainly being transferred to airfields in Omsk and Ulan-Ude.

🔹 Estonia’s Defense Minister said NATO may deploy a German-Dutch corps in the country.
If approved, the corps could be based in Pärnu due to its proximity to a port, airport, railway, highway, and Riga. A decision is expected by the end of the year.

Kyiv Post

🔹 “They’re Wily Characters” — Trump threatens to sanction Russia, warns it may not work.

🔸 Belarus is set to deploy a new military brigade near the border with Ukraine.

UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy admitted feeling guilty upon learning about the argument between Presidents Zelenskyy and Trump that took place in the Oval Office at the end of February.“To be honest, I thought: arrrr! Why didn’t I do more to support our Ukrainian colleagues in preparing for this meeting?” Lammy said.

FFS, "All about me...." it was probably best Lammy wasn't involved.....

Welcome back @DucklingSwimmingInstructress glad you had a lovely holiday!