Ukraine Invasion: Part 58

[MagicFox]

We’re all still here for Thread 58. Thanks to all regular contributors, especially those doing the daily hard work. Slava Ukraini 🇺🇦

Agreed thread guidance:

A. The agreed purpose of the thread is for the sharing of information and commentary on current events

B. If you post a link please tell us where it leads/give a precis of the content

C. Discussion and debate is welcome, but please keep it respectful

D. Please keep on topic

I suspect that soldiers who are not actually fighting would just be a nuisance, and that might well be what she was thinking of.

https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-august-28-2025

Key Takeaways:

• Russia killed at least 21 civilians, including children, and damaged civilian infrastructure and European diplomatic facilities during the second largest strike of the war thus far and the largest strike since the August 15 Alaska Summit on the night of August 27 to 28.
• Ukraine's ongoing strike campaign targeting Russia’s oil refineries is contributing to gasoline shortages across Russia that will likely raise inflation and cause further macroeconomic instability in Russia.
• The Russian information space responded to the Ukrainian strikes against the Afipsky and Kuibyshev refineries and reiterated concerns about the poor performance of Russia's air defense systems near critical and military infrastructure.
• Russian intelligence services are likely tracking US and European military supply lines in Europe by conducting reconnaissance operations over NATO territory.
• Ukrainian forces recently advanced near Pokrovsk and in western Zaporizhia Oblast. Russian forces recently advanced in northern Kharkiv Oblast, near Lyman and Pokrovsk, and in western Zaporizhia Oblast.

Kyiv Independent Telegram Highlights

⚡️ China accepts (kyivindependent.com/china-accepts-first-sanctioned-russian-lng-cargo-in-test-of-u-s-response-bloomberg-reports/) first sanctioned Russian LNG cargo in test of US response, Bloomberg reports.
This marks the first time a vessel carrying fuel from the blacklisted facility has entered a Chinese import terminal.

⚡️India's Russian oil (kyivindependent.com/indias-russian-oil-imports-will-increase-in-september-despite-us-tariffs-reuters-reports-2/) imports will increase in September, despite US tariffs, Reuters reports.
India's Russian oil imports are expected to increase by 10-20% in September, in spite of U.S. tariffs aimed at pressuring New Delhi into severing economic ties with Moscow.

⚡️ Russia reportedly flying drones (kyivindependent.com/russia-reportedly-flying-drones-over-us-arms-routes-in-germany/) over US arms routes in Germany.
European and U.S. military officials have been increasingly concerned over the drone flights in the German state of Thuringia, even as Russian sabotage operations in Europe declined in 2025, the New York Times reported.

⚡️Zelensky-Putin meeting 'obviously' (kyivindependent.com/zelensky-putin-meeting-obviously-not-happening-german-chancellor-says/) not happening, German chancellor says.
A proposed bilateral meeting between President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin will not take place, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said on Aug. 28.

⚡️US approves $825 million military sale to Ukraine for ERAM missiles (kyivindependent.com/us-approves-825-million-military-sale-to-ukraine-for-eram-missiles/).
The U.S. State Department approved a military sale to Ukraine for Extended Range Attack Munition (ERAM) missiles and related equipment worth an estimated $825 million, the agency announced on Aug. 28.

⚡️ Zelensky discusses security guarantees with Erdogan, says they'll be 'set out on paper next week (https://kyivindependent.com/zelensky-discussed-security-guarantees-with-erdogan-saying-it-will-be-set-out-on-paper-next-week/).'

⚡️Europe considering military buffer zone (kyivindependent.com/europe-considering-buffer-zone-on-ukrainian-territory-politico-reports/) on Ukrainian territory, Politico reports.
Europe is considering backing a 40-kilometer buffer zone as part of efforts to end Russia's war against Ukraine, Politico reported on Aug. 28, citing five European diplomats.

⚡️White House equates (kyivindependent.com/white-house-equates-russian-ukrainian-strikes-after-moscow-attack-killed-23-in-kyiv/) Russian, Ukrainian strikes after Moscow attack killed 23 in Kyiv.
"Perhaps both sides of this war are not ready to end it themselves," White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said after another deadly Russian attack on Kyiv.

⚡️ Witkoff misunderstood (kyivindependent.com/land-swap-confusion-is-steve-witkoffs-mistake-reuters-reports/) Putin's Ukraine land swap offer, left European leaders 'startled,' Reuters reports.
Witkoff — a real estate mogul with no previous diplomatic experience — reportedly went to the meeting with Putin without an official notetaker.

⚡️ 'Engulfed in flames (https://kyivindependent.com/ukraine-strikes-russias-railway-infrastructure-fuel-tanks-in-attack-video/)' — Ukraine strikes Russia's railway infrastructure, fuel tanks, HUR source says, releases video.
The attack on the junction station occurred around 5 a.m. in Tver, a Russian city northwest of Moscow.

As Russia recruits Ukrainian teens for sabotage, Ukraine races to reach them first

• (kyivindependent.com/as-russia-recruits-ukrainian-teens-for-sabotage-ukraine-races-to-reach-them-first/)* As Ukraine’s teenagers get ready for a new school year in a country at war, they face yet another threat — a network of Russian operatives trying to trick them into betraying their country. For the past year, Ukrainian headlines have tracked a series of shocking incidents where young people recruited by Russian state actors on messenger apps — particularly Telegram — have planted bombs, lit vehicles on fire, painted anti-state graffiti, and shared photos of potential military targets with Russian operatives.

⚡️Hungary bans (kyivindependent.com/hungary-bans-ukraines-commander-behind-druzhba-pipeline-attack-from-entering-country/) entry of Ukrainian commander over Druzhba pipeline attack.

⚡️ EU summons Russian envoy (kyivindependent.com/eu-summons-russian-envoy-over-delegation-building-damaged-in-kyiv-strike/) over delegation building damaged in Kyiv strike.
"No diplomatic mission should ever be a target," top EU diplomat Kaja Kallas said. [Neither should a civilian building, and certainly not a children's hospital, mevrouw Kallas]

⚡️Ukraine picks (kyivindependent.com/ukraine-picks-2000-meters-to-andriivka-as-its-2026-oscar-submission/) '2,000 Meters to Andriivka' as its 2026 Oscars contender.

⚡️ Update: 18 killed (kyivindependent.com/russia-drones-target-kyiv-ukrainian-cities-in-large-scale-attack/) in Russian mass attack on Kyiv, including 4 children.
The death toll of a Russian mass attack against Kyiv on Aug. 28 has risen to 16, Kyiv City Military Administration head Tymur Tkachenko said.

⚡️Russia hits Ukrainian vessel (kyivindependent.com/russia-hits-ukrainian-vessel-killing-1-crew-member-injuring-others-navy-says/), killing 1 crew member, injuring others, Navy says.

⚡️Ukraine claims strike (kyivindependent.com/ukraine-hits-radar-system-crimea/) on Russian S-400 radar system in occupied Crimea, shows footage.
Ukrainian military intelligence (HUR) struck a Russian 91N6E radar system, part of the S-400 Triumph air defense system, in occupied Crimea overnight on Aug. 28, HUR reported.

⚡️Russian attacks (kyivindependent.com/russian-attacks-in-ukraine/) kill 23, injure 62 in Ukraine [between 27 - 28 Aug 25].
Russia launched 598 drones overnight, including Shahed attack drones and decoys, as well as 31 missiles, among them two Kh-47 Kinzhal ballistic missiles, nine Iskander-M or North Korean KN-23 ballistic missiles, and 20 Kh-101 cruise missiles, Ukraine’s Air Force reported.
Ukrainian air defenses intercepted 563 drones and 26 missiles.

⚡️Russian attacks (kyivindependent.com/russian-attacks-kill-5-injure-26-in-ukraine-over-past-day/) kill 5, injure 26 in Ukraine over past day.

⚡️ Russian losses amount to nearly 220,000 killed (kyivindependent.com/russian-losses-amount-to-nearly-220-000-killed-as-of-august-media-reports/) as of August, media reports.
Some 219,000 Russian soldiers were killed in the war in Ukraine, Mediazona and Meduza reported, basing the calculations on the list of verified deaths and other data.

Ragnar Bjartur Gudmundsson 🇺🇦
‪@ragnarbjartur.bsky.social‬
⚡️ WAR IN UKRAINE & RUSSIA — AUG 29, 2025
■ Casualties below average, engagements see an uptick
■ Record drone losses (previous record set a day earlier)
■ Other equipment losses well above average & 28 missiles intercepted
■ Strike ratio remains unfavorable

UNITED24 Media Telegram Highlights

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen spoke with US President Donald Trump following Russia’s latest massive strike on Ukraine.

🕯 On August 29, Ukraine honors the memory of defenders who gave their lives for the country’s independence and territorial integrity.
The date was chosen for a reason. On August 29, 2014, one of the most tragic episodes of the Russian-Ukrainian war before the full-scale invasion took place — the withdrawal of Ukrainian soldiers from the encirclement near Ilovaisk. Following orders and moving through the agreed “green corridor,” Ukrainian columns were mercilessly and dishonorably shot by Russian forces.
The path of our defenders lay through sunflower fields, which is why the sunflower became the traditional symbol of this memorial day.

The European Commission is developing a mechanism to use nearly 200 billion euros in frozen Russian assets to rebuild Ukraine after the war, — Politico.
Brussels is assessing the willingness of EU countries to transfer the assets into “riskier investments” that could generate more profit for Ukraine and increase pressure on Russia, which continues to wage war, the publication reports.
Supporters of the idea also see the scheme as a step towards a potential “asset seizure” and their transfer to Ukraine as punishment for Russia’s refusal to pay post-war compensation.
Importantly, this option does not involve the immediate confiscation of assets, which most EU countries oppose due to financial and legal concerns.
Negotiations are expected to reach a climax on Saturday, August 30, when the 27 EU foreign ministers will discuss this option for the first time during an informal meeting in Copenhagen.

Hungary has banned Ukrainian military from entering the Schengen zone over attacks on the Druzhba oil pipeline.
The restriction concerns the commander of the Armed Forces of Ukraine’s Unmanned Systems Forces, Robert Brovdi, known by the call sign “Magyar.” He is an ethnic Hungarian born in Zakarpattia.

Hungarian officials are trying to discriminate against Hungarians in Ukraine for their participation in the defense of our state and people, President Zelenskyy said, commenting on the situation with Robert Brovdi.

"Be our guest" — Sikorski invited Robert "Magyar" Brovdi to Poland.
The head of the Polish Foreign Ministry made this statement in response to Hungary’s announcement banning entry to Hungary and the Schengen zone for the commander of the Ukrainian Armed Forces’ Unmanned Systems Forces, Robert "Magyar" Brovdi.

OPINION: A Future Without Hunger or Exclusion? How Europe Steps In With a Promise to Protect Ukraine’s Kids (united24media.com/opinion/a-future-without-hunger-or-exclusion-how-europe-steps-in-with-a-promise-to-protect-ukraines-kids-11133)
No child should have to grow up hungry, excluded, or without a safe place to call home. Russia’s war in Ukraine has pushed millions of children into poverty and hardship. The European Child Guarantee is offering help and hope.

There was one man from our group in Sevastopol, a doctor. I quietly approached him and said, excuse me for the details, that I was going to the toilet with bile and blood. I asked what damage they could have caused while beating me. He replied that after such beatings, nothing would be surprising, — former Kherson mayor Volodymyr Mykolaienko spoke about torture in Russian captivity.
“They tortured us constantly. Some days more, some days less. I was in Kherson for about 16 days. When they brought me to Sevastopol, undressed me, and asked, ‘What is this?’ I said, ‘I fell. I’ve been falling for 16 days straight.’ Then they admitted me two days later in Voronezh. The doctor there asked, ‘Can you breathe at all?’ They also beat me in Voronezh, but Kherson remains the most vivid memory,” — Mykolaienko told the Kherson publication MOST.
According to him, his ribs were broken three times in captivity. In Voronezh, his leg was broken when a guard pricked his finger on a bookmark in Mykolaienko’s jacket pocket during a search.
“The reception was extremely harsh; they beat us constantly. We were processed through the ranks — three operatives with rubber batons were in the courtyard. Everyone wore masks. And everyone beat you.
I was lucky — an elderly guard led me. They only brought me halfway through the ranks, and he said, ‘Enough. He’s already been beaten; his face is covered in blood.’
Everyone was beaten three times a day: during morning checks, evening checks, and walks during the day — either a guard dog would bite you, or at the bathhouse, they would beat you as well.
We were their enemies; we did not submit. We should have met them with flowers, but we met them with weapons,” adds Mykolaienko.

How Russia Stole Billions From Ukraine Over 30 Years Ago (united24media.com/anti-fake/how-russia-stole-billions-from-ukraine-over-30-years-ago-11156)

Decades before Russian missiles rained on Ukraine, Moscow had already pulled off a quieter heist: seizing tens of billions in Soviet assets that rightfully belonged to Kyiv.

[Kyiv after Russia's strikes]

Kyiv Post Telegram Highlights

Belgium will provide F‑16 fighter jets to Ukraine as soon as possible and deliver an additional €100 million in military aid, according to the country’s Defense Minister.

Kyiv struck Russia’s Afipsky and Kuibyshev oil refineries and depots (www.kyivpost.com/post/59050) on Aug 28, sparking massive fires, while Russia shelled Ukrainian cities.

Leading US senators from both sides of the aisle are condemning Russia’s deadly [Aug 27-28th] attack on Kyiv, (www.kyivpost.com/post/59088) accusing Putin of rejecting peace.

She was born under Russian fire.
She died under Russian fire.
Angelina came into this world in 2022 — during a Russian shelling. Yesterday, Russia killed her and her mother. They were among the dead in a missile strike on Kyiv.
Another Ukrainian child who never knew peace.

Live: Ukraine Telegram Highlights

[more info]
⚠️Russian drones are flying over routes used to transport American weapons in Germany, according to an investigation by The New York Times and WirtschaftsWoche.
The media report that drone activity has been concentrated in the eastern German state of Thuringia. Some of the drones were manufactured in Iran, while German intelligence believes at least some were launched from ships in the Baltic Sea.
US officials confirmed the flights but said they could not track exactly what drones were involved. They believe the UAVs were operated either by Russians or by individuals working for Russian intelligence services.
Experts at the Center for Strategic and International Studies warn that the information gathered by the drones could be used in the war against Ukraine — to help Russia anticipate which weapons it may face — or for new acts of sabotage in Europe.

🇺🇸 Trump is “not pleased, but not surprised” by Russia’s attack on Kyiv, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said.
“Russia launched this strike on Kyiv, just as Ukraine recently carried out attacks on Russian oil refineries,” she stated.
Echoing the president’s earlier remarks, Leavitt said Trump wants the war to end, but “the leaders of both countries must also want it to end.”

An F-16 fighter jet has crashed in Poland, killing the pilot.
Reuters reports the crash occurred during a training flight ahead of an air show in the city of Radom.

Two-thirds of Americans are pessimistic about the possibility of a quick peace between Ukraine and Russia, according to a Gallup poll.
Americans are highly concerned about whether any negotiated settlement would be fair:
🔴 73% worry that a ceasefire deal would be too favorable to Russia.
🔴 87% worry that Russia would violate the terms of any ceasefire agreement.
On US support for Ukraine: 46% say the US is not doing enough, 25% believe it is doing too much, and 27% think it is doing the right amount.
Democrats largely say the US is not doing enough, while Republicans are split between saying the US is doing enough or too much.

An F-16 fighter jet has crashed in Poland, killing the pilot.
Reuters reports the crash occurred during a training flight ahead of an air show in the city of Radom.

Happened when the pilot was practising his display routine. At a first glance (video footage is on line but not for the sensitive) nothing to suggest anything other than an accident.

Kyiv Independent Telegram Highlights

⚡️ Ukraine calls emergency UN Security Council meeting (kyivindependent.com/ukraine-calls-emergency-un-security-council-meeting-over-russian-strike-on-kyiv/) over Russian strike on Kyiv.
The Ukrainian delegation in New York will reportedly brief the international community about the scale of destruction and will urge an immediate ceasefire and the protection of civilians.

⚡️Talks with Ukraine 'very productive and constructive (kyivindependent.com/talks-with-ukraine-very-productive-and-constructive-us-envoy-witkoff-says-ahead-of-security-council-meeting/),' US envoy Witkoff says ahead of Security Council meeting.
The meeting was described by Trump administration officials as both a progress report and a reaffirmation of efforts to bring Ukraine and Russia to the table for an eventual peace deal, according to Fox News.

⚡️Russia targets Ukrainian cities with missile, drone attacks (kyivindependent.com/russia-launches-missiles-drones-at-ukrainian-cities-as-prospects-for-peace-continue-to-fade/) as peace talks stall.

⚡️Update: Poland scrambles (kyivindependent.com/russia-launches-missiles-drones-at-ukrainian-cities-as-prospects-for-peace-continue-to-fade/) fighter jets as missiles target western Ukraine amid large-scale attack.
In response to Russia's large-scale attack on Ukraine, Poland's Air Force said it had scrambled fighter jets to protect Polish air space, as Russian missiles target Ukraine's far-west regions.

⚡️Military, NATO backing, sanctions — Zelensky outlines (kyivindependent.com/zelensky-outlines-3-key-pillars-for-ukraines-security-guarantees/) 3 key pillars for Ukraine's security guarantees.
Security guarantees for Ukraine should include provisions related to army funding, security deals with NATO members, and sanctions against Russia, President Volodymyr Zelensky said.

Why Ukraine security guarantees are dead in the water
(kyivindependent.com/why-ukraine-security-guarantees-are-dead-in-the-water/)
Diplomats, officials, and experts who spoke to the Kyiv Independent say there's little chance Russia will ever agree to robust security guarantees, and Ukraine's Western allies lack the political and military resolve necessary to enforce them.

⚡️ Belgium pledges nearly $120 million (kyivindependent.com/belgium-pledges-nearly-120-million-to-ukraine-under-nato-led-arms-scheme/) to Ukraine under NATO-led arms scheme.
"This funding goes on top of the 1 billion euros ($1.17 billion) military aid that Belgium has already delivered," Ukraine's Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal said.

⚡️Trump giving Ukraine 'deeper strike capabilities (kyivindependent.com/trump-giving-ukraine-deeper-strike-capabilities-nato-envoy-says-after-missile-sales-deal/),' NATO envoy says after missile sales deal.
The comments come after the U.S. greenlit a European-funded $850 million sale of 3,350 ERAM missiles for Ukraine, which can strike targets at a range of 240-450 kilometers (150-280 miles).

⚡️Patriot components, Starlink upkeep — US approves (kyivindependent.com/us-approves-329-million-military-sale-for-ukraine-including-patriot-components-satellite-equipment/) $329 million in military sales for Ukraine.
The United States Department of State approved military sales to Ukraine worth $329.1 million on Aug. 29, for components related to the upkeep of Patriot air defense systems as well as Starlink terminals, the agency announced.

⚡️ Trump endorsed Chinese peacekeepers (kyivindependent.com/trump-pitched-chinese-peacekeepers-in-post-war-ukraine-ft-reports-white-house-denies/) in post-war Ukraine, FT reports; White House denies.
U.S. President Donald Trump suggested that Chinese peacekeepers could monitor a neutral zone along the front line in Ukraine as part of a potential peace settlement, the Financial Times reported on Aug. 29, citing four undisclosed sources.

In comments for the outlet, a senior U.S. administration official denied the claims as "false," saying there had been "no discussion on Chinese peacekeepers."

⚡️ Trump is a 'Russian asset (https://kyivindependent.com/trump-is-a-russian-asset-portuguese-president-says/),' Portuguese president says.
Questions about Trump's possibly shady relationship with Russia and the country's security services have long swirled.

⚡️Ukrainian drone сauses fire (https://kyivindependent.com/ukrainian-drone-cases-fire-near-vladimir-putins-palace-and-winery/) near Vladimir Putin's Black Sea palace and winery, media reports.
The fire started as a result of a Ukrainian drone attack on Aug. 28 near a village close to Gelendzhik, Russian independent media outlet the Insider reported.

⚡️ Ukraine claims strike (kyivindependent.com/ukraine-claims-strike-on-russian-facility-supplying-fuel-to-moscows-army/) on key Russian facility supplying fuel to Moscow's army.

⚡️ Update: Kyiv summons Hungary envoy (kyivindependent.com/hungary-bans-ukraines-commander-behind-druzhba-pipeline-attack-from-entering-country/) to protest entry ban for Ukrainian commander of Hungarian descent.

Crypto crimes cost Ukraine billions annually in lost revenue, new reports finds (kyivindependent.com/crypto-crimes-cost-ukraine-billions/)
Ukraine’s unregulated crypto market is fertile ground for criminals, corrupt officials, and Russian saboteurs to exploit, but a new report claims that proper legislation could help the state recover at least $10 billion in lost tax revenue and stolen funds annually.

⚡️Kyivstar celebrates (kyivindependent.com/kyivstar-celebrates-nasdaq-bell-ringing-ceremony-in-kyiv/) NASDAQ bell-ringing ceremony in Kyiv.
The bell ringing took place at the Nasdaq headquarters in New York City on Aug. 29, with Ukraine's Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko and Presidential Office Head Andriy Yermak in attendance.

⚡️Ukrainian drone strikes halt operations (kyivindependent.com/ukrainian-drone-strikes-halt-operations-at-russias-kuibyshevsk-refinery-sources-tell-reuters/) at Russia’s Kuibyshevsk refinery, sources tell Reuters.
The refinery, operated by Rosneft, saw both of its main crude distillation units — CDU-4 and CDU-5, each with a capacity of 70,000 barrels per day — taken offline in the recent strikes.

⚡️Large fire seen after Ukrainian drones reportedly strike (kyivindependent.com/ukrainian-drones-reportedly-strike-oil-refinery-in-russias-krasnodar-krai/) oil refinery in Russia's Krasnodar Krai.
Ukrainian drones reportedly struck an oil refinery in Russia's Krasnodar Krai overnight on Aug. 29, Russian Telegram channels reported.

⚡️Hungarian opposition (kyivindependent.com/hungarian-opposition-politician-suppotred-ukrainian-commander-banned-from-entering-hungary-over-oil-pipeline-attack/) politician speaks up in support for Ukrainian commander banned by Budapest over oil pipeline attack.
Marton Tompos, a representative of the Hungarian opposition party Momentum, sent 414 euros to the 414th Strike UAV Brigade "Magyar's Birds," founded by Robert Brovdi, the target of the ban.

⚡️Ukrainian drone сauses fire (https://kyivindependent.com/ukrainian-drone-cases-fire-near-vladimir-putins-palace-and-winery/) near Vladimir Putin's Black Sea palace and winery, media reports.
The fire started as a result of a Ukrainian drone attack on Aug. 28 near a village close to Gelendzhik, Russian independent media outlet the Insider reported.

⚡️'Supporting more terror' (kyivindependent.com/supporting-more-terror-ukraine-blasts-russian-flag-display-at-venice-film-festival/) — Ukraine slams Russian flag display at Venice Film Festival.

⚡️ Russian attacks kill 3, injure 42 (kyivindependent.com/russian-attacks-on-ukraine-2/) in Ukraine over past day.
Ukrainian forces intercepted 510 drones, six ballistic missiles, and 32 cruise missiles launched by Russia overnight, the Air Force reported.

Sigh. Hidden (hopefully temporarily) because it mentioned the electronic currency.

UNITED24 Media Telegram Highlights

In Kupiansk, Ukrainian soldiers are successfully eliminating enemy reconnaissance groups — 30 groups have been destroyed over the past two days. The situation remains difficult in the Pokrovsk and Zaporizhzhia directions, President Zelenskyy said at a briefing in Kyiv.
▫️ Pokrovsk direction — currently the most serious. The enemy has gathered up to 100,000 troops and is preparing an offensive.
▫️ Zaporizhzhia direction — no changes. Russia continues to build up its landing forces, and the grouping is already significant.
▫️ Kharkiv and Donetsk regions — the Armed Forces of Ukraine are conducting active operations, creating difficulties for the enemy.
▫️ Sumy direction — Ukrainian forces are gradually pushing the enemy back.

🇭🇺 Hungary did not join other EU countries in condemning the massive Russian strike on Kyiv.
Budapest refused to sign the statement by EU High Representative Kaia Kallas, which condemned the August 28 attack. The EU stressed that the strike on civilian infrastructure was a “deliberate escalation,” during which the buildings of the EU and British Council missions were damaged.

🇩🇪 Russia attacks Europe’s infrastructure every day and seeks to destabilize democracy, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said in an interview with LCI.
He noted that Russia is not only waging war against Ukraine but is also constantly trying to influence public opinion and undermine Europe’s stability.
According to Merz, Putin aims to restore the USSR and feels threatened by democracy, which is why he “does not want to have it around.”
Merz also agreed with Macron, who called Putin a “man-eater” and a “predator who does not want peace.”

On August 29, Ukraine initiated an emergency UN Security Council meeting after Russia’s massive attack on Kyiv and other cities. The meeting is set for 22:00 Kyiv time today. It was convened at Ukraine’s request and supported by partners.
According to Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, it responds to the wave of Russian missile and drone strikes that caused dozens of civilian casualties, including children.

❗️President Zelenskyy outlined three key blocks of security guarantees for Ukraine:
▫️ Preservation of the current size of the army and weapons supply through Ukrainian, European, and American production;
▫️ Agreements at the leaders’ level with NATO member states on readiness to support Ukraine in the event of renewed aggression;
▫️ Sanctions against Russia and the use of frozen Russian assets for reconstruction.

Massive Russian attack on Ukrainian cities overnight.
Up to 15–20 missile strikes were recorded in Dnipro and the region. There were hits and destruction; in Pavlohrad, large-scale fires broke out.
Zaporizhzhia suffered at least 12 strikes: one person was killed, 22 injured. More than 50 houses were damaged, and entire neighborhoods were left without electricity and gas.
Railway infrastructure in the Kyiv region was also damaged, causing several trains to arrive in the capital with delays of over two hours.

Belgium will consider sending troops to Ukraine after a peace agreement, Belgian Defense Minister Theo Francken said.
"Regarding the military contingent in Ukraine, we will think about it," Francken was quoted as saying by RBC-Ukraine at an informal meeting of EU defense ministers in Copenhagen.

Denmark will spend about €1.4 billion this year on weapons production by Ukraine’s defense industry.
“My expectations are that this year we will be able to invest around €1.4 billion directly into Ukrainian defense industry companies. The conclusions are quite ambitious… Firstly, the Ukrainian defense industry works very quickly compared to European companies — they can deliver in months, not years. And secondly, it is financially effective,” said Defense Minister Poulsen.
He expressed hope that more countries will join this format of support for Ukraine in the future.

EU defense ministers have supported extending the mandate of the EU Military Assistance Mission and deploying military instructors in Ukraine, said EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaia Kallas.

“We want to protect the territorial integrity of Ukraine. We don’t want Russia to take over the whole country,” US Vice President J.D. Vance told USA Today.
“We want the killing to stop, and we believe the war has reached a point where the Russians, by continuing to fight, are achieving nothing. And the Ukrainians are achieving nothing either. The best outcome for everyone, including the United States, would be to stop the killing and bring this issue to a peaceful resolution.” [well, other than the fact that the Russians are actually advancing, taking over territory, makign the US look utterly weak and killing a lot of Ukrainian civilians Mr Vance]

🇺🇦🥈 Ukrainian high jumper Oleh Doroshchuk took second place at the Diamond League final.

⚡️Trump giving Ukraine 'deeper strike capabilities (kyivindependent.com/trump-giving-ukraine-deeper-strike-capabilities-nato-envoy-says-after-missile-sales-deal/),' NATO envoy says after missile sales deal.
The comments come after the U.S. greenlit a European-funded $850 million sale of 3,350 ERAM missiles for Ukraine, which can strike targets at a range of 240-450 kilometers (150-280 miles).

This is interesting as there were recently reports that Hegseth had veto'd any deep strikes into Russia from months ago. So either those reports were false, the implication that Ukraine can now strike deeper is incorrect or the veto has been lifted.

Kyiv Post Telegram Highlights

On Monday, the two-week deadline Trump gave Putin expires — Zelensky

Hungary may veto EU plans to conduct military exercises on Ukrainian territory and to organize training for Ukrainian troops after a potential ceasefire.

In Lviv, former Speaker of the Ukraine‘s Parliament, Andriy Parubiy was reportedly shot dead, according to Ukrainian media.

Ukrainian drones hit the usually peaceful Russian city of Oryol (www.kyivpost.com/post/59142) early on Friday morning, Aug. 29 in a possible retaliation attack for a deadly Russian strike the night before.

Russia cannot occupy Ukraine, (https://www.kyivpost.com/post/59137) but borders can’t be restored by force — Zelensky

Ukraine’s special operators recently were kitted out with a drone called “Shark” (www.kyivpost.com/post/59125) specifically designed to hunt down and destroy air defense radars and anti-aircraft missiles.

In this episode of “Off the Record,” Canadian Ambassador to Ukraine Natalka Cmoc sits down with Karolina Lindholm Billing, the UNHCR Representative to Ukraine, as she concludes her mission after more than four years.
Watch now: https://www.kyivpost.com/videos/59138

The faces of those killed in Russia’s strike on Kyiv on August 28 are now known.
Children. Teenagers. Mothers. The elderly. Just Ukrainians. They are gone. Burned alive. Crushed under rubble. Suffocated in smoke. Russia killed them.

“The youngest girl was not even three”: Rescuers ended search operations in the Darnytskyi district, where 22 victims were found. In total, 23 people were killed across Kyiv, (www.kyivpost.com/post/59124) and eight remain missing.

Live: Ukraine Telegram Highlights

ERAM missiles, whose delivery to Kyiv was approved by the US State Department, could begin arriving in Ukraine as early as this year, CNN reports.
It is not yet clear whether restrictions will be placed on the use of the missiles.
US officials said the sale “supports US foreign policy and national security interests by strengthening the security of a partner country that is a factor of political stability and economic development in Europe.”
The purchase will be financed through contributions from Denmark, the Netherlands, and Norway, as well as under the US Foreign Military Financing (FMF) program.

🇸🇰 Slovakia has resumed issuing tourist visas to Russians.
BLS International, which provides services in Moscow and St. Petersburg, reportedly restarted accepting visa applications in the summer of 2025.
The Slovak side has not officially commented, but a Foreign Ministry representative, speaking anonymously to Pravda, confirmed: “Yes, it’s true.”
He declined to explain the reasons for the decision, noting that he does not handle visa matters.

📚 The Ukrainian Book Institute has launched an online database of translations of Ukrainian literature into other languages.
The list of more than 800 translated books is now available for viewing. It includes works by Ivan Bahrianyi, Ivan Kotliarevsky, Oksana Zabuzhko, Artem Chekh, Maria Matios, and other Ukrainian authors.
Users can filter the publications by language and find literature available to foreign readers in their native tongue.
The new tool will be useful for cultural and educational institutions, embassies, cultural centers, international event organizers, libraries, bookstores, teachers, and reading promoters.
Link: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1xCOhtkqN65WMMxf1oZTB3PElUXFgonp2FyBPySh3GUg/edit?gid=0#gid=0

A Russian war correspondent published a photo of bound men in military uniforms holding a grenade with its pin removed — suggesting a method of extrajudicial execution.
According to Russian correspondent Aleksandr Garmaev, the photo shows two Ukrainian prisoners of war. They are tied together, and at least one of the men has been forced to hold a grenade with the pin pulled out — which would explode if he dropped it.
“A waltz of prisoners performed by two khokhols. And only the attentive will understand that this dance cannot end without fatal consequences,” Garmaev wrote in the caption.
[How Russian soldiers amuse themselves eh?]

They were killed by Russia in Kyiv on August 28.
The first names of the victims:
▪️ 2-year-old Angelina
▪️ Her 24-year-old mother, Nadiya Halych
▪️ Maryna Hryshko, 17, student
▪️ Yana Shapoval, mother of a 10-year-old boy
▪️ Nazarii Koval, 14, school student
▪️ Oksana Protsiuk — doctor of physical and rehabilitation medicine, neurologist
▪️ Olena Chala
▪️ Vira Tulupova — member of the folk song and dance ensemble Hromytsia

More about the murder of Parubiy.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cjw6ep37469o

Rest in peace.

https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-august-29-2025

Key Takeaways:

• Russia reportedly leveraged the August 15 Alaska Summit in order to stall for a planned Fall 2025 offensive, among other things.
• Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov gave a major speech at the Russian Ministry of Defense (MoD) Collegium on August 29 and gave an update on the ten priority directions for the Russian MoD. * *Belousov also discussed Russian battlefield progress in Ukraine and exaggerated Russian gains in recent weeks.
• Belousov indicated that the Russian MoD has shifted its priorities to produce light vehicles over heavy armored vehicles, reflecting Russian battlefield tactics since Winter 2024–2025.
• Belousov stated that Russia continues to focus on developing its Unmanned Systems Forces and drone production capacity.
• Belousov indicated that the Russian MoD is expanding its efforts to digitalize Russian recruitment, likely as part of wider efforts to augment Russia’s administrative capacity to handle conscription and mobilization processes.
• Ukrainian forces continue to strike Russian military assets and energy infrastructure in Russia and occupied Ukraine.
• Ukraine’s ongoing strikes campaign against Russian oil infrastructure continues to contribute to gasoline shortages in Russia.
• US and Ukrainian representatives met in New York City on August 29 and reaffirmed Ukraine’s readiness for peace negotiations with Russia, including at the level of heads of state.
• The US State Department approved a $825 million Foreign Military Sale (FMS) of aviation ammunition and related equipment to Ukraine.
• Russian forces recently executed seven Ukrainian prisoners of war (POWs) near Myrolyubivka, Donetsk Oblast.
• Ukrainian forces recently advanced in northern Kharkiv Oblast and Russian forces recently advanced near Borova and Pokrovsk.

* *

Kyiv Independent Telegram Highlights

⚡️Russian units surrounded (kyivindependent.com/russian-units-surrounded-near-dobropillia-ukraines-military-says/) near Dobropillia, Ukraine's military says.
Russian forces have been surrounded by Ukraine's military near Dobropillia, located in the Pokrovsk district of Donetsk Oblast — currently the hottest sector of the front line — military spokesperson Viktor Trehubov announced on Aug. 30.

⚡️Ukrainian forces liberate village (kyivindependent.com/ukrainian-forces-liberate-village-near-kupiansk-in-kharkiv-oblast/) near Kupiansk in Kharkiv Oblast.

⚡️Putin arrives in China (kyivindependent.com/putin-arrives-in-china-for-regional-security-summit-hosted-by-xi-jinping/) for regional security summit hosted by Xi Jinping.
Chinese state broadcaster CCTV described China-Russia relations as at their "best in history," calling them "the most stable, mature and strategically significant among major countries."

⚡️ Amid Trump's pressure, India to host Putin (kyivindependent.com/amid-trumps-pressure-india-to-host-putin-in-december/) in December.
Russian President Vladimir Putin is also expected to meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during their visit to China on Sept. 1.

⚡️Ukraine's intel chief warns of Russian disinformation wave (kyivindependent.com/ukraines-intel-chief-warns-of-russian-disinformation-wave-ahead-of-zapad-2025-military-drills/) ahead of Zapad-2025 military drills.
Kyrylo Budanov said that upcoming joint exercises, set to begin in about two weeks, will pose challenges for both Ukraine and European countries, particularly through what he described as "cognitive influence."

⚡️ 'We are already in conflict with Russia' — Merz says Putin destabilizing Germany (kyivindependent.com/we-are-already-in-conflict-with-russia-german-chancellor/).
"(Russian President Vladimir) Putin is destabilizing a big part of our country," German Chancellor Friedrich Merz told French outlet La Chaine Info.

⚡️ Russia's Rosneft net income plummets 68% (kyivindependent.com/russias-rosneft-net-income-drops-68-reuters-reports/), Reuters reports.
Oil prices were dragged down by production hikes by Saudi Arabia and other OPEC countries.

⚡️ Trump administration to fire (kyivindependent.com/trump-administration-to-fire-most-of-voice-of-americas-staff/) most of Voice of America's staff.
VOA was established during World War 2 in an effort to counter Nazi propaganda.

⚡️ Update: Ex-parliament speaker’s murder ‘carefully prepared,’ Zelensky says. (kyivindependent.com/ex-parliament-speaker-reportedly-shot-dead-in-lviv/)
President Volodymyr Zelensky said he had instructed security services to present verified information about the investigation of Andrii Parubii's murder as soon as possible.

⚡️ Ukraine destroys underground explosives depot (kyivindependent.com/ukraine-destroys-underground-explosives-depot-in-western-russia-intelligence-source-claims/) in western Russia, intelligence source claims.
The facility was used to store pyroxylin gunpowder, a smokeless powder used in the production of small arms, artillery, and rocket engines, a military intelligence source claimed.

⚡️US officials accuse Europe of prolonging Russia's war (kyivindependent.com/us-officials-accuse-europe-of-prolonging-russias-war-in-ukraine-axios-reports/) in Ukraine, Axios reports.
According to Axios, U.S. officials have grown increasingly impatient with European leaders, whom they allege are pushing Ukraine to hold out for a "better deal."

⚡️ Trump considers sending US private military companies (kyivindependent.com/trump-makes-plans-to-send-american-private-military-companies-to-secure-ukraine-peace-deal-telegraph/) to secure Ukraine peace deal, Telegraph reports.
The focus for such U.S. contractors appears to be on helping to build new defenses and securing U.S. business interests in Ukraine, the Telegraph reported.

⚡️ Ukraine's military denies mass re-deployment (kyivindependent.com/ukraine-denies-mass-re-deployment-of-soldiers-from-air-defense-to-infantry/) of soldiers from air defense to infantry.
Military spokesperson Andrii Kovalov acknowledged that reassignments take place, but said this does not concern air defense specialists protecting Ukrainian skies.

⚡️ Lithuania sets up 'dragon teeth' barriers (kyivindependent.com/lithuania-sets-up-dragon-teeth-barriers-at-russia-belarus-borders/) at borders with Belarus, Russia's Kaliningrad exclave.
The so-called "dragon teeth" — pyramid-shaped concrete anti-tank obstacles — were set up as part of the Baltic Defense Line, a planned string of defenses along the Baltic countries' borders with Russia and Belarus.

What’s it like to live in a Ukrainian village () during wartime?
In “Dare to Ukraine: Village,” host Masha Lavrova leaves the capital, Kyiv, and moves to a village to explore authentic Ukrainian rural life. She tries to survive for a month on a $500 budget — the average Ukrainian salary. With no prior experience of village life, she faces the challenges, charm, and surprises of the countryside while producer Valeriia keeps throwing unexpected tasks her way.
Follow Masha’s bumpy journey to her new home in a village in Kyiv Oblast in the first episode. ()

⚡️ Poland deports 15 Ukrainian nationals (kyivindependent.com/polish-border-police-deport-15-ukrainian-nationals-as-relations-deteriorate/) amid heightened tensions.

⚡️Russian soldier allegedly executes unarmed civilian (kyivindependent.com/russian-soldier-filmed-executing-unarmed-civilian-in-donetsk-oblast-military-says/) in Donetsk Oblast, footage shows.

Ragnar Bjartur Gudmundsson 🇺🇦
‪@ragnarbjartur.bsky.social‬
⚡️ WAR IN UKRAINE & RUSSIA — AUG 31, 2025 (1/2)
■ Engagements above average, casualties below it
■ Drone losses remain well above the 7-day average; 38 of 48 missiles intercepted
■ 7-day drone & equipment losses at record level
■ Overnight attacks: all drones, with a decent interception rate
■ Relatively few 🇺🇦 strikes; slight increase in 🇷🇺 ones

UNITED24 Media Telegram Highlights

Lithuania, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, and Poland have sent a joint letter to the European Commission requesting additional funding to strengthen protection of the EU’s external borders, BNS reports.
The letter, addressed to European Commission Vice-President Henna Virkkunen and Commissioner for Home Affairs and Migration Magnus Brunner, highlights security threats posed by recent airspace violations and stresses the need to enhance air surveillance, drones, and counter-drone systems.
The countries asked the Commission to include these capabilities among the priorities of the current EU Home Affairs Fund (2021–2027).

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy spoke with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, informing him about the recent talks with President Trump in Washington, which included European leaders.

🤷 The Russian offensive brought almost no results, as the enemy failed to capture a single major city — General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine
Russia’s latest offensive campaign this season ended in vain: the occupiers did not seize control of a single major city, the General Staff reported, commenting on Russian Chief of General Staff Valery Gerasimov’s account of the “results of the spring-summer campaign of 2025.”

🚁❌ Drones destroyed two helicopters at the airport in occupied Simferopol — OSINT analysts
According to preliminary data, drones destroyed two Mi-8 and Mi-24 helicopters at the airport in temporarily occupied Simferopol. This was reported by the aviation resource AviVector, based on a comparison of satellite images from August 22 and 30.

🇭🇺 Hungary defends its veto on opening negotiations on Ukraine’s EU accession
Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó said Hungary will not allow Ukraine to be “pushed into the EU,” arguing it would destroy Hungarian farmers, threaten food security, and “allow the Ukrainian mafia to infiltrate Hungary.”

😡 Russia massively attacked Odesa region with strike drones, four DTEK facilities hit
On the night of August 31, Russia launched a massive drone strike on Odesa region, with Chornomorsk and its surroundings suffering the most. According to Odesa military regional administration’s head Oleh Kiper, energy infrastructure was damaged, leaving more than 29,000 subscribers without electricity.

A massive information attack is expected during the upcoming Russian-Belarusian exercises “Zapad-2025” on September 12, said HUR chief Kyrylo Budanov.
He stressed that Russia will rehearse elements of a future war, and the drills are meant to serve as a signal for European states, especially the Baltic countries.
“With the start of the active phase of these exercises, the Baltic countries will come under serious information pressure, accompanied by all sorts of leaks and provocations,” Budanov said.

A Russian diplomat buried her eyes in the phone to avoid witnessing her country’s crimes.
This happened during Prime Minister Yuliia Sviridenko’s speech at the UN Security Council. While Sviridenko showed a photo of a child’s body killed in a Russian attack, the representative of the Russian delegation kept her eyes glued to her phone. https://t.me/United24media/34975

Russian Flag Over Venice Festival—The Tip of the Iceberg? (united24media.com/culture/russian-flag-over-venice-festival-the-tip-of-the-iceberg-11181)
Despite Russia being excluded from most international festivals since its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the Russian flag reappeared on the roof of the Palazzo del Cinema on the Venice Film Festival’s opening day—reviving questions about Moscow’s political, economic, and cultural influence at major international events.

Kyiv Post Telegram Highlights

Putin has arrived in China for a four-day visit during which he is expected to attend a military parade, participate in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit, and hold bilateral talks with the leaders of Iran, Turkey, and India.

While the US ambassador to NATO frames the new arms sale package as a major policy shift to support Ukraine, a veteran of NATO leadership cautions that the policy may not be as decisive (www.kyivpost.com/post/59198) as it appears.

Live: Ukraine Telegram Highlights

🇭🇺🇪🇺 Hungary has not changed its position on Ukraine’s EU accession and will block the opening of negotiations.
Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó made the statement after an informal meeting of EU foreign ministers in Copenhagen.
According to him, the Hungarian government will not allow Ukraine to be “pushed into the EU,” claiming it would “destroy Hungarian farmers, undermine Hungary’s food security, and let the Ukrainian mafia infiltrate Hungary.”
“That is why we will not allow the substantive part of negotiations on accession — meaning the concrete chapters — to be opened,” Szijjártó said.
He added that the Hungarian government is under heavy pressure regarding Ukraine’s accelerated EU accession and the introduction of new sanctions against Russia, this time in the energy sector. Szijjártó stressed that Hungary will not bow to pressure and will “protect the Hungarian people from the negative consequences of the war and sanctions.”

🇸🇪 Sweden is disappointed that the EU cannot agree on transferring frozen Russian assets to Ukraine.
Swedish Foreign Minister Jessica Stegengard said the EU is currently unable to make a decision on reallocating frozen Russian assets in favor of Ukraine.
“I am very disappointed that the EU is not capable of making decisions on frozen [Russian] assets to ensure that Ukraine can use them,” Stegengard stated.

Footage from a Chinese factory was found on the camera of a “Gerbera” UAV shot down over Ukraine.
This was reported by Serhiy “Flash” Beskrestnov, head of the Center for Radiotechnologies. https://t.me/liveukraine_media/34022

14 seconds before the explosion, the dog sensed it coming — and 3 seconds before, it went to hide
That’s what instincts mean. https://t.me/liveukraine_media/34020

https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-august-30-2025

Key Takeaways:

• The Kremlin appears to have launched a coordinated informational effort posturing military strength on the battlefield in order to shape Western thinking and falsely portray a Russian victory as inevitable.
• The Kremlin's presentation of territorial gains statistics ignores the significant losses that Russia is incurring and the gradual, creeping nature of Russia's advances — painting an incomplete picture of Russian performance on the battlefield.
• Russia launched another large-scale combined drone and missile strike against Ukraine on the night of August 29 to 30 — the third combined strike with over 500 drones and missiles since the August 15 US-Russia summit in Alaska.
• The Kremlin appears to be setting conditions to demote a senior Kremlin official who reportedly advised Russian President Vladimir Putin in recent months to end the war in Ukraine.
• Ukrainian forces continue to strike Russian military and energy infrastructure in Russia
• Russian Investigative Committee Chairperson Alexander Bastrykin will stay in his current position for another year following reports that Russian President Vladimir Putin was considering moving Bastrykin to a new position.
• An unknown assailant shot and killed former Ukrainian Verkhovna Rada Chairperson Andriy Parubiy in Lviv City on August 30.
• A Russian servicemember recently murdered an elderly Ukrainian civilian in the Pokrovsk direction.
• Ukrainian forces recently advanced near Kupyansk and Novopavlivka, and Russian forces recently advanced near Toretsk, Pokrovsk, and Velykomykhailivka.

https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-august-31-2025

Key Takeaways:

• Ukrainian forces advanced near Novopavlivka. Russian forces advanced near Toretsk.

* * [Not sure why ISW is so brief today. Maybe people are away]

I took a look and I wonder if they made a mistake that they've corrected since - it's still very short but there are a couple more points added:

Key Takeaways:

• The Kremlin is pursuing a multi-pronged informational effort aimed at deterring Western support for Ukraine and undermining European participation in the peace process.

• Russian milbloggers criticized the Russian Ministry of Defense (MoD) for exaggerating its battlefield successes.

• The Kremlin is intensifying these information efforts because its territorial gains remain disproportionately limited and slow relative to the high losses incurred.

• Ukrainian forces advanced near Novopavlivka. Russian forces advanced near Toretsk.

@notimagain

A plane carrying European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen was forced to land at the airport in the Bulgarian city of Plovdiv using paper maps due to GPS failures, the Financial Times reports.
The incident is being treated as a Russian interference operation, three officials familiar with the matter said.

Just seen the story elsewhere and as described in the MSM it seems a bit odd.

As I and others elsewhere understand it there are non-GPS approach methods and non GPS reliant electronic approach aids at Plovdiv.

Mostly these days your charts are on your (self contained) iPad...last time I saw a paper approach chart was well over a decade ago..

In the real world if you'd lost GPS you'd tell the controllers you'd want an alternative type of approach, select the matching chart on the iPad,.fly the approach as published and land, no drama..no headlines.

There's talk of VdL holding for an hour as a result of the GPS outage so either there was another complication (be interesting to see the aircraft type) or the story is not being reported accurately, at least ATM.