What's the latest on the Ukraine-Russia war?
Asked 7 hours ago
Answer
Russia has launched record drone attacks on Ukraine following a U.S. pledge to send more defensive weapons. Ukrainian air defenses have intercepted most of the drones, with Lutsk and ten other provinces targeted. The U.S. reversed a pause on weapons shipments, with Ukraine requesting more Patriot missiles. Russia has intensified its summer offensive and now allows foreigners to serve in its army. Ukraine has withdrawn from the anti-personnel mine ban treaty to slow Russian advances. The European Court of Human Rights has ruled Russia violated international law in Ukraine. Recent peace talks have not yielded progress, and Western support for Ukraine is seen as crucial.
References
The European Court of Human Rights ruled Russia responsible for human rights abuses in Ukraine and the downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17. This is the first international legal recognition of such violations since the conflict began.
Russia targeted Ukraine with a record 728 drones overnight after U.S. President Trump pledged more defensive weapons to Kyiv. Ukrainian air defense destroyed almost all drones, mainly targeting Lutsk and ten other provinces. The attack follows escalating air assaults and a reversal of a Pentagon decision to pause munitions supplies.
President Putin signed a decree allowing foreigners to serve in the Russian army during draft periods, aiming to offset battlefield losses without a new mobilization. Most foreign recruits come from South and East Asia, motivated by financial incentives and Russian citizenship.
President Trump announced the U.S. will resume sending defensive weapons to Ukraine after a brief pause, as Russian attacks intensify. Ukraine has requested more Patriot air defense missiles. The move follows recent calls between Trump, Putin, and Zelensky.
Ukraine has withdrawn from the Ottawa Convention banning anti-personnel landmines, citing battlefield setbacks and shortages. The move aims to slow Russian advances, as Russia is not a party to the treaty and uses such mines widely.
Zelensky and Trump discussed air defense and further support. Trump expressed disappointment with Putin's lack of willingness for a ceasefire and mentioned the possibility of more sanctions. Russia intensified air attacks on Kyiv and other cities after these talks.
Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant relied on emergency generators after Russian shelling. Kyiv is recovering from a major Russian air attack with casualties and damage. Trump agreed with Ukraine to strengthen air defenses after calls with Putin and Zelensky.