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Ukraine Invasion: Part 60

967 replies

MagicFox · 14/01/2026 12:28

We have got to thread 60. So many thanks as always to regular contributors and to those providing updates. For the 60th time, Slava Ukraini πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡¦

**
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

OP posts:
Thread gallery
407
DesdamonasHandkerchief · 12/04/2026 21:07

AskingQuestionsAllTheTime · 12/04/2026 20:43

The other guy was in Orban's party, though; is he terrifically better now than he was then?

He’s anti immigration & not promising financial support for Ukraine, but is pro EU & anti soviet, and as @DdraigGoch says it’s a chance to get rid of Orbans Putin friendly vetos. (Although the EU still have Serbia’s Fico to contend with. )

DuncinToffee · 12/04/2026 21:24

From Jim Pickard, FT

one immediate dramatic consequence of the Hungarian result:

Magyar has promised to repair relations with the EU and unblock a €90bn EU loan for Ukraine

PerkingFaintly · 12/04/2026 21:37

DuncinToffee · 12/04/2026 21:24

From Jim Pickard, FT

one immediate dramatic consequence of the Hungarian result:

Magyar has promised to repair relations with the EU and unblock a €90bn EU loan for Ukraine

Whoop whoop!

blueshoes · 12/04/2026 21:49

PerkingFaintly · 12/04/2026 21:37

Whoop whoop!

Yesss!

ReleaseTheDucksOfWar · 12/04/2026 21:58

Let's see it actually happen, but at last there seems a possibility!

blueshoes · 13/04/2026 01:52

https://understandingwar.org/research/russia-ukraine/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-april-12-2026/

Key Takeaways

  1. Both Ukrainian and Russian sources accused each other of limited violations of the Kremlin’s unilateral short-term, theater-wide ceasefire over the Orthodox Easter holiday on April 11 and 12.
  2. Russian forces committed a war crime in Kharkiv Oblast, reportedly amid the Easter ceasefire on April 11.
  3. Ukrainian forces recently advanced in the Kostyantynivka-Druzhkivka tactical area. Russian forces recently advanced in the Oleksandrivka direction.
  4. Russian forces did not conduct any long-range drone or missile strikes against Ukraine on the night of April 11 to 12.
Natsku · 13/04/2026 05:34

DuncinToffee · 12/04/2026 21:24

From Jim Pickard, FT

one immediate dramatic consequence of the Hungarian result:

Magyar has promised to repair relations with the EU and unblock a €90bn EU loan for Ukraine

Oh that is a very nice start!

DesdamonasHandkerchief · 13/04/2026 10:46

Live:Ukraine

⚑️ Seven new air defense towers have been installed around Vladimir Putin’s residence in Valdai.

Reports say the air defense system around the residence is arranged in two concentric rings with different ranges, similar to the defense setup around Moscow.

According to earlier findings by Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty journalists, Alina Kabaeva and Putin’s sons spend a significant amount of time at the Valdai residence. For the Russian president himself, a replica of his Kremlin office has reportedly been built there.

⚑️ During the declared β€œceasefire,” Russian forces attacked three unarmed wounded soldiers β€” but there’s a twist: they were Russian servicemen.

To test whether Russia would uphold its promises, the command of Ukraine’s 24th Separate Mechanized Brigade ΠΎΡ€Π³Π°Π½ΠΈΠ·ed a trial medical evacuation of three Russian POWs captured the day before. They were dressed in neutral clothing.

β€œThe wounded servicemen were evacuating (withdrawing) from forward positions in Chasiv Yar. They were moving from the contact line to the rear, unarmed, showing signs of receiving medical aid, using sticks β€” in accordance with conventions and ceasefire conditions,” the brigade said.

Russian forces spotted the wounded and killed them.

β€œThey are destroying their own! The command of Russia’s 70th Motorized Rifle Division has no concept of honor and is incapable of even fulfilling the promises of its β€˜leader’!” the statement added.

⚑️ Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor OrbÑn has acknowledged the results of the parliamentary elections and said his party will move into opposition.

According to Reuters, he described the outcome as clear, though painful for his team, and noted that he has already congratulated the winning party.

OrbΓ‘n also stressed that his political force will continue to serve the country from the opposition. He said the main task now is to strengthen their communities and made clear he does not intend to step away from politics.

With 60% of the votes counted, the Tisza party is securing 136 seats in parliament.

A former OrbΓ‘n ally: a portrait of Hungary’s next leader, PΓ©ter Magyar.

πŸ”΄ Magyar is a former member of Fidesz who worked in Brussels and was once part of the ruling system, but later left the party, calling it corrupt. His Tisza party had been inactive until 2024, rapidly became the main opposition force, and has now won the elections.

πŸ”΄ Unlike Viktor OrbΓ‘n, Magyar calls Russia the aggressor and recognizes Ukraine’s right to defend itself. He visited Kyiv after the strike on Okhmatdyt, has been to Maidan and the Wall of Remembrance, and has criticized OrbΓ‘n’s contacts with the Kremlin. At the same time, he opposes Ukraine’s fast-track EU accession and does not support arms supplies.

πŸ”΄ Hungary is likely to stop blocking EU decisions on Ukraine, particularly on financial aid and sanctions against Russia. Overall, Budapest could become a less confrontational partner, making decision-making easier.

πŸ”΄ Despite this, a full reset in relations with Ukraine may not happen. Magyar has suggested a referendum on Ukraine’s EU membership and emphasizes the rights of the Hungarian minority, which could continue to cause tension.

πŸ”΄ Magyar supports a clearer pro-European course for Hungary but with a pragmatic approach to energy policy and relations with Russia. He also proposes limiting the prime minister to two terms.

⚑️ President Volodymyr Zelenskyy congratulated Péter Magyar on his election victory.

β€œIt is important when a constructive approach prevails. Ukraine has always sought good neighborly relations with all countries in Europe, and we are ready to develop cooperation with Hungary.

Europe and every European nation must grow stronger, and millions of Europeans seek cooperation and stability.

We are ready for meetings and joint constructive work for the benefit of both nations, as well as for peace, security, and stability in Europe,” the Ukrainian president wrote.

With 93% of the votes counted in Hungary, Tisza holds 138 seats, while OrbΓ‘n’s Fidesz has 54.

πŸ‡­πŸ‡Ί Opposition party Tisza, led by PΓ©ter Magyar, is winning 138 seats in parliament after 98.93% of the votes were counted in Hungary’s elections.

Prime Minister Viktor OrbΓ‘n’s Fidesz party is securing 55 seats, while the far-right Our Homeland party is getting 6.

Overnight, Hungarians took to the streets of Budapest and other cities to celebrate the opposition’s victory.

β–ͺ️A constitutional majority in parliament requires 133 seats, allowing the passage of key laws.

⚑️ Russia attacked Ukraine with 98 drones, with air defenses neutralizing 87 of them

Nine UAVs struck targets across nine locations, while debris fell at one additional site.

In Komyshany, Kherson region, a 64-year-old man and a 65-year-old woman suffered blast injuries, concussions, and shrapnel wounds to the torso as a result of the attack.

Overnight, Russian drones also struck Bohodukhiv in Kharkiv region. A 57-year-old man was injured, and a fire broke out, completely destroying a residential house.

πŸ‡¬πŸ‡§ The UK has stripped a native-born citizen of his citizenship for the first time over links to Russia, The Sun reports.

The case concerns 45-year-old Mark Bullen, who now lives in Russia, is married to a Russian woman, and has four children with her. He previously traveled to the UK periodically to visit family.

Back in 2013, he was questioned by intelligence services over his trips to Russia. In November 2024, he was again interrogated during a visit to the UK but was ultimately released.

In a letter published by Bullen, the decision to revoke his citizenship was made β€œin the public interest.” Such powers are typically used in cases involving terrorism or serious crimes.

⚑️ Hungarian media have noted the absence of Foreign Minister PΓ©ter SzijjΓ‘rtΓ³ from public view since OrbΓ‘n’s election defeat became known.

In particular, he was not present alongside Viktor OrbΓ‘n when the prime minister publicly acknowledged the loss.

Journalists also point out that SzijjΓ‘rtΓ³ has been β€œsilent” on social media for over 16 hours β€” his last Facebook post, around 16:00 on Sunday, urged Fidesz supporters to vote.

DesdamonasHandkerchief · 13/04/2026 10:51

United 24 Media:

πŸ“Š In the Russian Federation, the number of serious crimes committed by servicemen returning from the so-called β€œSVO” (Special Military Operation) is rising sharply.

The total number of serious crimes in Russia in 2024 reached 617,000 β€” the highest figure in 14 years. At the same time, in 2022, the number of murders increased by 4%.

As of December 2025 alone, Russian mercenaries returning from the front had killed or seriously injured at least 1,016 people.

⚑️ Turnout in Hungary’s elections reached a record 77.8%, and voting has concluded.

Media reports say that citizens elected 199 members of parliament, with the final vote count expected to be completed by April 18.

Voters also reported violations, including the distribution of packages to voters and the suspicious transportation of people to polling stations.

⚑️ Russian forces have begun installing air-to-air missile launchers on trucks in an attempt to counter large-scale attacks by Ukrainian UAVs.

⚑Magyar’s victory in Hungary could unlock €90 billion in aid for Ukraine, according to Politico

According to the publication, Tisza leader PΓ©ter Magyar advocates improving relations with Brussels and may be able to unlock the aid package.

However, Magyar opposes the transfer of Hungarian weapons and direct financial aid to Ukraine and is skeptical about Ukraine’s accelerated accession to the EU.

He previously promised to put the issue of Ukraine’s European integration to a referendum in Hungary.

According to nearly complete results, with almost 99% of the votes counted, Tisza received 69.35% and 138 seats β€” a constitutional majority. OrbΓ‘n’s Fidesz party received 27.64% and 55 seats.

DesdamonasHandkerchief · 13/04/2026 10:56

Kyiv Independent:

⚑️ Russian forces executed 4 Ukrainian POWs in Kharkiv Oblast, prosecutors say

Russian troops shot dead four Ukrainian prisoners of war (POWs) on April 11 near the village of Veterynarne in Kharkiv Oblast, Ukraine’s Prosecutor General’s Office reported on April 12.

⚑️ News from occupied Ukraine: Treason accusations in Crimea, doctor shortages, Tor missile system destroyed

News from occupied Ukraine: More than 580,000 Ukrainian children have been forced to study in schools under Russian standards in Ukraine's occupied territories; Ukrainian forces disabled the "Slavyanin" railway ferry, the last vessel of this kind operating in the Kerch Strait to supply the Russian army in occupied Crimea; and more.

⚑️Status of Russian oil sanctions uncertain as Trump vows to blockade Strait of Hormuz.

Trump's announcement follows the failure of peace talks with Iran in Pakistan. It raises questions about the temporary waiver of U.S. sanctions on Russian oil, which officially expired April 11.

⚑️ Historic election ousts Hungary's Orban after 16 years in power.

The election results are "painful for us, but clear," Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban said in a brief concession speech Sunday night.

Orban's 16-year rule over Hungary came to an end in a historic parliamentary election that saw record-breaking voter turnout.

European leaders welcomed opposition leader Peter Magyar's win as a victory for Europe and for democracy. "Hungary has chosen Europe," European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said.

⚑️Russia accidentally kills its own soldiers while violating Easter truce, Ukrainian military claims.

Russian forces reportedly killed three unarmed soldiers with FPV drones as they were being withdrawn from the front lines β€” not realizing the evacuees were captured Russian personnel.

⚑️Nearly 209,000 Russian soldiers killed in Ukraine identified by media investigation.

Russian independent media outlet Mediazona, in collaboration with the BBC Russian service, has confirmed the identities of 208,755 Russian military personnel killed in Ukraine.

⚑️ Investigation: Western companies miss deadline to exit Russia’s main drone production

Manufacturers from Belgium, Germany, Switzerland, France, and the U.S. continue operating in the Alabuga Special Economic Zone, where Russia produces thousands of Shahed drones capable of reaching the EU.

This investigation reveals that one American and six European companies still operate alongside the mass production of Russia's long-range attack drones in 2026. In 2025, two additional European companies were operating there until the Kremlin seized control of their Russian subsidiaries.

⚑️ ⚑️At least 2 killed, 6 injured in Russian strikes across Ukraine despite Easter ceasefire.

Russian forces launched 98 drones against Ukraine overnight, of which 65 were Shahed-type drones, the Air Force said.

⚑️ These are the indicative estimates of Russia’s combat losses as of April 13, according to the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

Ukraine Invasion: Part 60
DesdamonasHandkerchief · 13/04/2026 11:18

Kyiv Post:

⚑️ The war will continue after Easter β€œas long as Zelensky cannot find the courage to take responsibility for his decisions,” Kremlin spokesperson Peskov said.

Kyiv on Monday dropped its recommendation against travel to Hungary, saying the risk of provocations has subsided following the end of a campaign marked by anti-Ukrainian rhetoric, Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said.

⚑️ Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov will visit China this week, Beijing confirmed, in a move aimed at boosting cooperation between the two countries.

He is set to hold official talks from April 14 to 15, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said.

⚑️ Celebrations went beyond the crowd at Tisza’s election night event on Sunday β€” politicians took to the stage and started dancing.

Zsolt HegedΕ±s, the party’s candidate for health minister, stole the spotlight. As PΓ©ter Magyar wrapped up his speech, he broke into an energetic victory dance on stage.
[Sadly the video is too large to upload but these stills are a flavour!]

Ukraine Invasion: Part 60
Ukraine Invasion: Part 60
Ukraine Invasion: Part 60
Ukraine Invasion: Part 60
Ukraine Invasion: Part 60
LlttledrummergirI · 13/04/2026 20:23

The war will continue after Easter β€œas long as Zelensky cannot find the courage to take responsibility for his decisions,” Kremlin spokesperson Peskov said.

Peskov can go fuck himself. It appears that Trump is not the only one unable to keep the truth, facts and actual events in his thought process.

DesdamonasHandkerchief · 13/04/2026 23:04

Thanks for finding that @blueshoes. It’s so joyful, I was disappointed not to be able to post it.

blueshoes · 14/04/2026 00:23

@DesdamonasHandkerchief glad to find the video of him leaning into the celebrations!

blueshoes · 14/04/2026 02:24

https://understandingwar.org/research/russia-ukraine/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-april-13-2026/

Key Takeaways

  1. The Kremlin is downplaying Viktor Orban’s election defeat as Russia loses a key European ally.
  2. An open-source analysis of Russian contract recruitment reports that Russian recruitment continues to decline as battlefield casualties rise, consistent with other indicators of Russian recruiting and manpower challenges that ISW has observed.
  3. Russian and Ukrainian officials issued competing Orthodox Easter ceasefire violation accusations, demonstrating the challenges of implementing a sustainable ceasefire without clearly defined terms, monitoring mechanisms, and dispute resolution mechanisms.
  4. Kremlin officials may be continuing to set rhetorical conditions to engage in operations in the airspace of Finland and the Baltic states.
  5. Ukrainian forces recently advanced in the Slovyansk direction. Russian forces recently advanced in the Oleksandrivka direction.
  6. Ukrainian forces may have continued their long-range strike campaign against Russian defense industrial infrastructure. Russian forces launched 98 drones against Ukraine.
ReleaseTheDucksOfWar · 14/04/2026 15:38

Kyiv Independent Telegram Highlights

⚑️ Russia targets critical dam in Kharkiv Oblast (kyivindependent.com/russia-targets-critical-dam-in-kharkiv-governor-says/) with glide bombs, governor says.
Six such bombs were directed at the Pechenihy dam in Chuhuiv district, one of the largest reservoirs in the region and a key infrastructure facility, Syniehubov said on national television.

⚑️ Asking Ukraine to cede land 'unworthy' of Hungary's 1956 resistance, Magyar says. (kyivindependent.com/asking-ukraine-to-cede-land-is-unworthy-of-1956-revolution-heroes-magyar-says/)
"If someone says this... you should ask them what would happen if Russia attacked Hungary: which Hungarian county would they give up?" Peter Magyar said in response to a question from a Kyiv Independent reporter.

⚑️ German arms giant Rheinmetall to build missiles with Ruta (kyivindependent.com/maker-of-ukrainian-ruta-missile-to-launch-joint-production-of-advanced-missile-systems-with-rheinmetall/) maker Destinus.
German defense giant Rheinmetall and Netherlands-based defense manufacturer Destinus announced plans on April 13 for a joint venture to produce advanced missile systems, including cruise missiles and rocket artillery systems, according to a statement.
β€œEurope is entering a new phase of scaling missile production,” Mikhail Kokorich, co-founder and CEO of Destinus, said in a statement.

⚑️ Germany, Ukraine elevate ties to strategic partnership (kyivindependent.com/germany-ukraine-elevate-ties-to-strategic-partnership/) with new defense deal.
"Now, more than ever before, we want to learn from one another," German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said.

⚑️29 Russian soldiers killed (kyivindependent.com/29-russian-soldiers-killed-during-infiltration-attempt-via-gas-pipeline-in-sumy-oblast-ukrainian-brigade-says/) during infiltration attempt via gas pipeline in Sumy Oblast, Ukrainian brigade says
According to Ukraine’s 71st Separate Airmobile Brigade of the Air Assault Forces, the group tried to exploit poor weather conditions and limited visibility to breach Ukrainian defenses.

⚑️Spain, Belgium to allocate over $2 billion in defense support (kyivindependent.com/spain-belgium-to-allocate-over-2-billion-in-defense-support-for-ukraine/) for Ukraine.
Spain and Belgium have pledged a combined 2 billion euros ($2.35 billion) in new military aid to Ukraine following recent defense talks, officials said.

IMF spring meetings: What to watch on Ukraine funding (kyivindependent.com/imf-spring-meetings-what-to-watch-on-ukraine-funding/)
Finance ministers, central bank governors, and heads of state will attend the International Monetary Fund and World Bank’s spring meetings on April 13–18, held each year.
Ukraine will meet with the fund itself, which signed off on a new $8.1 billion four-year loan to Kyiv in February 2026. The country relies on foreign cash to keep its finances afloat, and could be forced to make difficult spending decisions if funds don’t arrive by mid-summer.

⚑️ Ukrainian drones hit chemical plant (kyivindependent.com/ukrainian-drones-strike-chemical-plant-in-russias-cherepovets-astra-reports/) in Russian city of Cherepovets, reports suggest.
Ukrainian drones struck a major industrial facility in the Russian city of Cherepovets overnight, targeting a chemical plant producing fertilizers and industrial compounds, according to Russian independent outlet Astra.

⚑️Drones reportedly strike (kyivindependent.com/drones-reportedly-strike-targets-in-occupied-zaporizhzhia-oblast-crimea/) targets in occupied Zaporizhzhia Oblast, Crimea.

⚑️Russian, Belarusian swimmers allowed (https://kyivindependent.com/russian-and-belarusian-athletes-allowed-to-compete-under-national-flags-in-water-sports/) to compete under national flags after ban lifted.

The World Aquatics Bureau lifted sanctions on Russia and Belarus in water sports on April 13, allowing athletes from these countries to compete under their national flags, despite ongoing Moscow's full-scale war against Ukraine.

⚑️Ukraine charges Russian general (kyivindependent.com/ukraine-charges-russian-general-in-absentia-for-imprisoning-villagers-in-school-basement/) in absentia for imprisoning villagers in school basement.
The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) on April 13 charged Russian General Denis Barilo in absentia for his role in the torture of civilians in Yahidne, Chernihiv Oblast in 2022.

Russian missile strike on Dnipro kills 5, injures 24 (kyivindependent.com/russian-missile-strike-on-dnipro-kills-4-injures-25/)
A Russian missile strike on the city of Dnipro on April 14 killed five people and injured at least 24 others, local authorities reported.

An explosion was heard in the city at around 11:30 a.m., as Ukraine’s Air Force warned of a missile heading toward Dnipro

⚑️At least 2 killed, 18 injured in Russian strikes (kyivindependent.com/at-least-2-killed-22-injured-in-russian-strikes-across-ukraine-over-past-day/) across Ukraine over past day

Ragnar Bjartur Gudmundsson πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡¦β€¬ β€ͺ@ragnarbjartur.bsky.social‬
Β· 6h
β–  Fighting continues despite the supposed ceasefire, but with fewer engagements
β–  Casualties and land-based equipment losses below average, but drone losses are the 4th-highest
β–  Engagements and casualties well below the 7-day average
β–  Overnight drone attacks close to average, with a decent interception rate; 4 missiles used, 1 shot down
β–  5 πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡¦ strikes reported; 3rd-highest πŸ‡·πŸ‡Ί drone launches and unusually heavy shelling

Ukraine Invasion: Part 60
ReleaseTheDucksOfWar · 14/04/2026 15:47

UNITED24 Media telegram Highlights

For the first time in the history of the war, Ukraine captured an enemy position using only ground-based robotic systems and drones.
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy announced this.
β€œThe occupiers surrendered. The operation was carried out without the use of infantry and without casualties on our side,” the president said.

πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡¦ President Zelenskyy spoke with the NATO Secretary General.

❗️The Druzhba oil pipeline will be repaired by the end of April.
β€œRegarding the oil pipeline, as we promised, it will be repaired by the end of April. Not completely, but enough to function,” said Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

The new €4 billion aid package from Germany includes hundreds of Patriot missiles, as well as deep-strike and mid-strike drones, Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov said.
Important agreements were also signed during the Ukrainian delegation’s visit to Germany.
According to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, a total of ten agreements were signed. However, Fedorov noted that three are key for Ukraine’s defense:
▫️ Strengthening air defense β€” Germany will finance a contract for several hundred Patriot missiles and supply 36 IRIS-T launchers.
▫️ Development of deep-strike capabilities β€” an agreement was reached on €300 million in investments in long-range capabilities, which will allow increased production of Ukrainian weapons.
▫️ Drone production β€” as part of the Build with Ukraine initiative, the countries are launching joint production of mid-strike drones using AI. At the first stage β€” 5,000 drones for the Ukrainian Defense Forces.

PΓ©ter Magyar vowed that Viktor OrbΓ‘n will never be able to come to power in Hungary again.
The leader of the Tisza party said the country’s constitution would be changed so that a person can serve only two terms as prime minister. This rule would also apply to OrbΓ‘n, who has been in power in Hungary for 16 years.
Magyar also stated that under OrbΓ‘n, Hungary had become "the most corrupt country in the EU" and was run by an "organized crime group."

β€œThe Hungarians have made their choice. We respect this choice. We look forward to continuing our very pragmatic contacts with the new Hungarian leadership,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.

PΓ©ter Magyar said that Hungary will not stop purchasing Russian oil and will not support Ukraine’s accession to the EU.
"Hungary will strive to buy the safest and cheapest oil. As soon as this war ends, Europe will lift sanctions, because purchasing raw materials at inflated prices is not in Europe’s interests," the country’s new prime minister stated.

❗️Hungarian opposition leader PΓ©ter Magyar said that Foreign Minister PΓ©ter SzijjΓ‘rtΓ³ has not disappeared, but remains in Budapest, allegedly busy destroying important documents related to sanctions.
β€œWe know that his people are destroying documents just like in the old communist times. Shredders are working full-time not only in ministries but also in other institutions. But this will not help them.
We do not know muchβ€”there are many international treaties and secret government decisions that we know nothing about,” he said.

πŸ‘πŸ‡ͺπŸ‡Ί The European Commission has threatened the Venice Biennale with a €2 million funding freeze over Russia’s participation.

Crude oil supplies from Russia’s largest Black Sea port in Novorossiysk remain limited, with the two largest berths still not operational after Ukrainian drone attacks last week, Bloomberg reports.
Berths 1 and 1A, designed to handle Suezmax and Aframax tankers, remain idle at Transneft’s Sheskharis terminal, according to EU Copernicus satellite imagery and sources familiar with shipping data.
Currently, oil is being loaded only through Berth 2, which can handle smaller Aframax tankers, sources said. Pipeline operator Transneft did not respond to a request for comment.

This night, Russia attacked maritime infrastructure facilities in Izmail with strike drones, Minister of Community and Territorial Development of Ukraine Oleksiy Kuleba said.
β€œMost importantly, there were no casualties. Some elements of infrastructure and equipment were damaged, as well as a vessel flying the Panamanian flag.

Ukraine was handed a technical defeat for not appearing in the match against Russia.
The Ukrainian men’s water polo team was given a 0–5 technical defeat for failing to appear at the 2026 World Cup match.
As a reminder, on Monday, April 13, Ukraine was scheduled to play against the β€œNeutral Athletes B” team, which consisted of Russian water polo players. This match could have been the first meeting between the national teams of Ukraine and Russia in team sports since 2022.

AskingQuestionsAllTheTime · 14/04/2026 15:48

Asking Ukraine to cede land 'unworthy' of Hungary's 1956 resistance, Magyar says.
"If someone says this... you should ask them what would happen if Russia attacked Hungary: which Hungarian county would they give up?" Peter Magyar said in response to a question from a Kyiv Independent reporter.

I am starting to like this bloke.

ReleaseTheDucksOfWar · 14/04/2026 15:52

Kyiv Post Telegram Highlights

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said that after Hungary’s return to the European path, the EU should draw lessons from the OrbΓ‘n government’s actions and move toward qualified majority voting on foreign policy.

Hungary’s newly elected prime minister PΓ©ter Magyar signaled he will not block the EU’s €90 billion loan to Ukraine, noting the decision has already been made, but confirmed that Hungary will not take part in it.

Slovenia’s NATO exit on the table as new parliament speaker Zoran StevanoviΔ‡ plans a referendum on leaving the alliance, (www.kyivpost.com/post/73885) calling for a more independent foreign policy.
He says decisions should be made in Ljubljana, not Brussels β€” but admits quitting the EU is unlikely due to strong public support.

Chancellor Friedrich Merz signaled plans to address the number of Ukrainian men in Germany, saying it is vital they help defend their country.

Kyiv is preparing talks with European partners on a joint air defense system, (www.kyivpost.com/post/73871) Zelensky said, warning Europe must choose between shared security and Russian influence.

Hungary’s newly elected Prime Minister Peter Magyar said he would take a call from Vladimir Putin but would not initiate contact. (www.kyivpost.com/post/73853)
β€œIf Vladimir Putin calls me, I will pick up the phone,” he said. β€œI will not call him myself, but if we do talk, I can tell him to please stop the killing now, after four years.”

Canada has set up a legal mechanism to funnel profits from frozen Russian assets to Kyiv, as Ukraine pushes for the full confiscation of $300 BILLION (www.kyivpost.com/post/73766) in state assets.

Ukraine’s state-owned railway Ukrzaliznytsia tests a rail link from (www.kyivpost.com/post/73913) Kyiv to Chisinau Airport as a pilot project, offering an alternative route for international travel while the country’s airspace remains closed.

Pope Leo XIV says he won’t be silenced by Trump criticism as he vows to keep speaking out against war in the Middle East.
The pontiff insisted he will not engage in a public clash with the US president but will continue to β€œspeak loudly” against war and push for peace and dialogue.

An elderly woman was killed and more civilians were wounded (www.kyivpost.com/post/73811) in Kherson on Easter Monday, after a night wave of nearly 100 deadly Russian drones targeted Ukraine.

Trump refused to apologize and (www.kyivpost.com/post/73857) escalated his criticism of Pope Leo XIV after the pontiff called for an end to violence, condemning the Iran war.

ReleaseTheDucksOfWar · 14/04/2026 15:56

Live: Ukraine Telegram Highlights

France, Germany, the Netherlands, and Italy oppose fast-tracking Ukraine’s accession to the EU, Politico reports citing sources.
Among the reasons are concerns that EU enlargement could strengthen populist forces and trigger difficult national referendums.
In France, for example, right-wing politician Jordan Bardella could exploit the issue, arguing it risks job losses and increased pressure on the national budget.
Another factor is the experience with Hungary. Since joining the EU, the country has repeatedly been criticized for democratic backsliding, ties with Russia, and blocking EU decisions.
β–ͺ️Hungary’s newly elected prime minister PΓ©ter Magyar also said on April 13 that he does not support fast-tracking Ukraine’s accession, citing the ongoing war.

[...]
In just three months, Ukrainian ground robotic systems have carried out more than 22,000 missions, he added. These include platforms such as Ratel, Termit, Ardal, Lynx, Zmiy, Protector, Volya, and others. [...]

Ukrainian military showed footage of Russia’s attack on the Pechenihy dam in Kharkiv region.
Today, Russian forces dropped six guided aerial bombs on the site. Four hit the ground near the infrastructure, while two struck the water.
The Pechenihy reservoir is one of the largest in the region. Russian forces appear to be exploiting the period of maximum water levels caused by snowmelt.
The dam was not damaged β€” water discharge remains under control. t.me/liveukraine_media/39273

Russian forces continued attacks across Ukraine throughout the day, causing deaths and injuries. Here is what is known so far:
πŸ”΄Dnipropetrovsk region. In Dnipro, Russian forces attacked civilian cars moving on a road β€” four people were killed and 25 injured, nine of them in serious condition. In the region, Russian troops also struck infrastructure in Kryvyi Rih multiple times, sparking a fire.
πŸ”΄Kherson. A Russian drone hit a hospital, injuring four medical workers. Russian forces also struck the Korabelnyi district β€” a woman was killed and a man injured, currently in moderate condition.
πŸ”΄Kharkiv region. Russian drones hit two private houses in Kharkiv, one of which caught fire. Russian forces also struck the Pechenihy dam with guided aerial bombs.
πŸ”΄Chernihiv. Russian forces targeted administrative buildings, injuring two people.

DuncinToffee · 15/04/2026 09:39

https://bsky.app/profile/kateinkharkiv.bsky.social/post/3mjilvqa2ok2i

Vance says that stopping funding for Ukraine is one of his proudest achievements in this administration.

I’m watching this stunningly cruel speech from Ukraine, as Russia continues to kills us every day. Just today, they killed 8-year-old boy in Cherkasy and five people in Dnipro.

Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social)

Vance says that stopping funding for Ukraine is one of his proudest achievements in this administration. ​I’m watching this stunningly cruel speech from Ukraine, as Russia continues to kills us every day. Just today, they killed 8-year-old boy in Cher...

https://bsky.app/profile/kateinkharkiv.bsky.social/post/3mjilvqa2ok2i

ReleaseTheDucksOfWar · 15/04/2026 12:26

Kyiv Independent Telegram Highlights

Ukraine down, Russia up in IMF growth forecast (https://kyivindependent.com/ukraine-down-russia-up-in-imf-growth-forecast/)
The International Monetary Fund slashed Ukraine’s growth forecasts but raised Russia’s on April 14, as Kyiv exits a winter of heavy bombing and Moscow rides an unexpected windfall from the war in Iran.
Russia is set to grow 1.1% in 2026, the IMF said in its flagship report on the global economy released on April 14, up from a 0.8% estimate in January.
Ukraine will have to make do with 2% for 2026, says the fund, down from a 4.5% forecast in October β€” and on the lower end of the fund’s February range of 1.8–2.5%.

⚑️Iceland, Poland back tribunal (https://kyivindependent.com/iceland-poland-special-tribunal-russia-crime-of-aggression/) to prosecute Russia's aggression against Ukraine.

⚑️ Trump says he's not concerned (https://kyivindependent.com/trump-says-hes-not-concerned-about-orbans-defeat-calls-magyar-good-man/) about Orban's defeat, calls Magyar 'good man.'
Trump previously endorsed Orban, with U.S. Vice President JD Vance visiting Budapest last week to boost the Hungarian leader's campaign.

⚑️Russian drones strike Cherkasy, killing child (https://kyivindependent.com/russian-drones-strike-cherkasy-oblast-killing-child-injuring-8/), injuring 9.

⚑️ Vance calls end of Ukraine aid (https://kyivindependent.com/vance-calls-ending-ukraine-aid-one-of-the-proudest-achievements-of-trump-admin/) 'one of the proudest' achievements of Trump administration.
"One of the things I'm proudest that we've done in this administration is we've told Europe that if you want to buy weapons, you can, but the United States is not buying weapons and sending them to Ukraine anymore," Vance said.

⚑️At least 7 killed, 64 injured (https://kyivindependent.com/at-least-7-killed-52-injured-in-russian-strikes-across-ukraine-over-past-day/) in Russian strikes across Ukraine over past day.
Russian forces launched 324 drones and three Iskander-M ballistic missiles into Ukraine overnight, the Air Force said.

Ragnar Bjartur Gudmundsson πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡¦
β€ͺ@ragnarbjartur.bsky.social‬
⚑️ RUSSIA'S WAR AGAINST UKRAINE β€” APR 15, 2026
β–  2nd-highest engagements this month, but casualties below average; πŸ‡·πŸ‡Ί gains of 4 kmΒ² confirmed (net πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡¦ gains of 84 kmΒ² over the past 30 days)
β–  Land-based equipment losses well above average, but drone losses below average
β–  Overnight drone attacks well above average, excellent interception rate; 3 Iskander-M missiles used, none shot down
β–  8 πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡¦ strikes reported; πŸ‡·πŸ‡Ί air strike details not provided in today’s GSUA report

Ukraine Invasion: Part 60
ReleaseTheDucksOfWar · 15/04/2026 12:31

UNITED24 Media Telegram Highlights

Ukraine will not receive the first tranche of the €90 billion loan in April β€” the deadline has been postponed to the second half of the year, European Commission spokeswoman Paula Pinho said at a briefing.
"We remain committed to making the first payment under this package in the second half of this year, and if I may remind you of Ursula von der Leyen’s words, she said that we will provide this loan one way or another," Pinho said.

πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ The US has renewed sanctions on Russian oil, Politico reports.
The Trump administration did not extend the postponement introduced due to the war with Iran. The US Treasury Department described the exemption as a β€œshort-term measure.”
On the eve of the decision, Democratic senators called for the license not to be renewed, noting that it had allowed Russia to earn more than $4 billion.
At the same time, experts told Politico that the expiration of the exemption could push Russian intermediaries to develop new schemes to circumvent sanctions.
Official Kyiv supported the US decision. Presidential representative for sanctions Volodymyr Vlasyuk emphasized that reducing Russia’s oil and gas revenues is a key tool for advancing peace efforts.

The State Duma has allowed Vladimir Putin to deploy troops to countries where Russians are arrested and tried.
The document permits the use of the Russian Armed Forces β€œto protect the rights of Russian citizens,” including in cases of their arrest or prosecution by foreign courts and international bodies that the Kremlin does not recognize.
The initiative came after warnings from NATO and European intelligence agencies about possible Russian preparations for conflict with Alliance countries, The Moscow Times reports.

President Zelenskyy said that the ongoing war in the Middle East has led to a significant shortage of missiles for Patriot systems.
β€œWe have exactly such a shortage now, it can’t get any worse,” he said.
β€œIf the war lasts longer, there will be less weapons for Ukraine,” the president added.

πŸ›’ Russia cut oil exports to lowest level since August due to port strikes, according to Bloomberg
According to the agency, average shipments over the past four weeks have fallen to 3.22 million barrels per day – 200,000 barrels less than the previous week and the lowest level in recent months.
The decline occurred amid the suspension of shipments in Novorossiysk following the attacks, even as Baltic ports have only just begun to recover from previous strikes.
Despite rising oil prices due to the conflict in the Middle East, Russia is unable to fully meet demand. Meanwhile, oil tanker inventories are rapidly depleting, and supplies to India could be jeopardized by sanctions.

πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡¦πŸ‡©πŸ‡ͺ Ukraine and Germany have signed an agreement on the exchange of defense data β€” the first such memorandum for Ukraine, Defense Minister Fedorov said.
Within the framework of the agreement, joint projects are planned, including the analysis of the use of German systems PzH 2000, RCH 155, and IRIS-T based on combat data from Ukraine.
In addition, the memorandum прСдусматриваСт the exchange of combat data and developments. In particular, partner countries will be able to develop defense models based on artificial intelligence and other analytical solutions using Ukrainian experience.

β€œWe are improving the means of protection against Shahed drones and are convinced that this should also be done in Europe. Today, for this purpose, we initiated the Drone Deal with Norway and signed a Joint Declaration on Deepening Cooperation in the Field of Defense and Security,” Volodymyr Zelenskyy said following a meeting with Prime Minister of Norway Jonas Gahr StΓΈre.

At an oil depot in temporarily occupied Feodosia, two tanks burned down following a UAV attack, according to analyst Dnipro Osint (Harbuz).

πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡¦πŸ‡©πŸ‡ͺ Merz and Zelenskyy were shown seven types of drones produced at joint Ukrainian-German enterprises.
Among them is the β€œLinza 3.0,” capable of carrying up to 4 kg of payload over 15 km and staying in the air for up to an hour. This year, at least 10,000 units are planned for production.
Also presented were drones for evacuation and logistics (β€œTermit”), reconnaissance (β€œBabka”), destruction of armored vehicles (Anubis, Seth-X), FPV suicide (KOLIBRI 10β€³), and a high-speed target interceptor (STRILA).

Ukrainian tennis team rises to top 3 in Billie Jean King Cup world rankings for the first time

Ukraine Invasion: Part 60
ReleaseTheDucksOfWar · 15/04/2026 12:37

Kyiv Post Telegram Highlights

Germany plans to limit protection claims from Ukrainian men and send them back home, (www.kyivpost.com/post/73921) as Chancellor Merz and Zelensky say they’re needed on the ground to help their country.

China’s President Xi Jinping met with Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov, (www.kyivpost.com/post/73956) Chinese state media said, as a string of leaders of countries impacted by the Middle East war flock to Beijing.

EU ties up to €35B in frozen funds for Hungary to reforms and a shift on Ukraine, (www.kyivpost.com/post/73915) as incoming PM Magyar seeks to reset ties with Brussels.
Key demands include lifting Hungary’s veto on a €90B EU loan to Kyiv and backing new sanctions on Russia.

UN warns disruption in the Strait of Hormuz could trigger a global food crisis, (www.kyivpost.com/post/73931) driving up prices and limiting key agricultural supplies.
The fallout could also adversely impact Ukraine’s agricultural production and exports.

Italy has renewed its proposal for security guarantees for Ukraine modeled (www.kyivpost.com/post/73940) on NATO’s Article 5 collective defense clause, without granting Ukraine full NATO membership.

Zelensky said NO timeline (https://www.kyivpost.com/post/73944) has been agreed for a trip by US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.
The Ukrainian president said it would be β€œfair” for them to visit Kyiv after repeated trips to Moscow for talks.

Ukraine’s battlefield is increasingly becoming a β€œwar of robots,” (www.kyivpost.com/videos/73911) as drones take on roles once held by artillery, tanks, and infantry, turning unmanned systems into one of its most versatile tools.

Ukrainian soldiers are BUILDING ROBOTS from scratch in a secret workshop near Kharkiv (www.kyivpost.com/post/73972)to take risks instead of humans.
These unmanned ground vehicles deliver food, ammunition and fuel to positions too dangerous to reach.

Ukraine struck a Russian drone storage site near the occupied Donetsk (www.kyivpost.com/post/73924) airport early Tuesday using French-made SCALP cruise missiles and guided aerial bombs.

Trump said Italy’s Giorgia Meloni is β€œnot the same person anymore” (www.kyivpost.com/post/73934) after she defended Pope Leo XIV’s call for peace in the Iran conflict.

More than 500 birds have died after an oil spill from a sunken tanker (www.kyivpost.com/post/73929) near Russia’s Black Sea coast, with hundreds more heavily contaminated and unlikely to survive.
Russian authorities have yet to clear the wreckage as oil continues to leak.

Ukraine Invasion: Part 60