Intense Fighting and Civilian Casualties Mark Escalation in Ukraine Conflict

Russian forces intensify attacks across multiple regions, while Ukraine counters with strikes on Russian infrastructure and drone defenses.

Russian troops claim to have captured Velyka Novosilka in eastern Ukraine, but Ukrainian forces report strategic withdrawals and continued resistance in the area.
Ukraine's military successfully intercepted over 500 Russian drones and missiles in the past week, while also targeting key Russian facilities, including the Ryazan Oil Refinery and a command post in Kursk.
Heavy fighting persists in the Pokrovsk sector, accounting for nearly half of all frontline clashes, as Russian forces attempt to encircle the city using small-unit tactics.
Civilian areas in Ukraine, including Chernihiv, Kharkiv, and Dnipro, faced significant damage from Russian drone and artillery attacks, resulting in multiple casualties and injuries.
The European Union extended sanctions on Russia for six months, following diplomatic negotiations to address concerns raised by Hungary over energy supply routes.