At 16:41, Russia claims progress in Pokrovsk, Ukraine touts victories in Kursk
Russian Military Declares Capture of Another Village Near Pokrovsk in Eastern Ukraine's Territory
The Russian military force has declared victory over another village in the eastern part of Ukraine, close to the city of Pokrovsk. The soldiers have reportedly advanced to a distance of approximately 10 kilometers from Pokrovsk, a significant logistics center. Previously, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy announced plans to reinforce troops in the Pokrovsk region. Now, he reports a successful military operation in the Russian region of Kursk, with troops capturing another village and taking more Russian soldiers as prisoners. Based on these reports, Ukrainian troops are reportedly in control of 94 villages and over a thousand square kilometers of land in Kursk. However, these claims are yet to be independently verified.
16:12 Ukraine Denies Attempted Nuclear Power Plant Attack: Russia Could Initiate 'Nuclear Provocation'
Ukraine disputes Russian President Putin's allegations that Ukrainian troops attempted to attack the Kursk nuclear power plant last night. "This is a complete fabrication," says Andrii Kovalenko, the head of the Counter-Disinformation Department at the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine. The false claims of a Ukrainian "nuclear provocation" at the Kursk and Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plants follow. Kovalenko suggests that Russia is potentially planning this provocation itself, given Putin's involvement. He considers the possibility of a "nuclear provocation by Russia" to be real.
15:46 EU Gas Storage Facilities Near Full Capacity: EU Ready for Winter
Two months ahead of schedule, European Union gas storage facilities have reached 90% capacity. The EU is now well-prepared for the upcoming winter, reports the European Commission. After the start of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, all EU nations agreed in the summer of 2022 that gas storage should be at least 90% full by November 1. Although the fill levels differ between countries, with Spain boasting 100% capacity and Latvia at 69%, the EU is planning to further reduce its dependence on Russian natural gas by importing more liquefied natural gas (LNG) from the US and natural gas from Norway.
15:21 Putin Accuses Ukraine of Attacking Russian Nuclear Power Plant
Russian President Vladimir Putin accuses Ukraine of attempting to attack the Russian nuclear power plant in Kursk. Without offering any evidence, Putin says, "The enemy attempted to attack the nuclear power plant last night." The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) had previously expressed concern about the potential impact of the conflict on the power plant, urging "all parties to exercise maximum restraint."
14:50 IAEA Chief to Visit Kursk Nuclear Power Plant
The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi, will visit the Russian nuclear power plant in Kursk next week. Grossi's visit was confirmed by an IAEA spokesperson following the escalation of conflict in the western Russian region of Kursk. Shortly after the Ukrainian army launched a large-scale offensive in the region, Russia's state nuclear corporation Rosatom warned of a potential threat to the power plant due to Ukrainian attacks.
14:21 Russia: Over 115,000 People Evacuated from Border Regions
Russia has evacuated more than 115,000 people from its border regions with Ukraine. Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov revealed this during a meeting with President Vladimir Putin and senior government officials. The assessment of the damage to agriculture and industry caused by the Ukrainian offensive is ongoing.
14:00 Tusk: India Could Mediate in Ukraine War
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk supports India's potential role as a mediator in the Ukraine war. After meetings with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Tusk commented, "I am delighted that the Prime Minister has reaffirmed his readiness to engage personally for a peaceful, fair, and swift resolution of the war." Modi's mediation efforts gain significance as he is scheduled to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy later.
13:40 "Limited Kursk Incursion" Unlikely
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz does not believe that the Ukrainian advance in Kursk will be limited in scope or duration. According to investigative journalist Nadja Kriewald, there is no evidence to support Scholz's claims. On the contrary, the conflict appears to be intensifying.
13:20 Ukrainian Attacks Damage Several Russian Military Aircraft in Sawaslejka
Intelligence sources claim that several Russian military aircraft were destroyed in Ukrainian attacks on the Sawaslejka airbase. According to these sources, a MiG-31K supersonic interceptor and two Il-76 strategic transport aircraft were destroyed in attacks on August 16, while about five MiG-31K/I aircraft were damaged in an August 13 attack. Additionally, a fuel and lubricant depot was hit, and another MiG-31K/I aircraft was damaged.
13:06 Russian Security Service interrogates Foreign JournalistsThe Russian internal security organization, the FSB, has started criminal investigations against various foreign journalists, including a CNN reporter and two Ukrainian female journalists, due to their reporting in the Russian region of Kursk. This region is currently under Ukrainian control of several settlements. The FSB accused the journalists of illegally crossing the country's border after they recorded video footage in the Ukrainian-controlled town of Sudja. The agency warned of issuing international arrest warrants shortly. Their potential punishment in Russia can lead to a prison sentence of up to five years. Recently, an American journalist named Evan Gershkovich was able to return home as part of a prisoner swap after being convicted for 16 years in a labor camp on charges of espionage. Read more here.
12:34 Zelenskyy visits Border Region: Refilled "Exchange Fund"Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited the Sumy border region in northeastern Ukraine, where Ukrainian troops invaded Russia more than two weeks ago. He announced the capture of another town in the Russian Kursk region and the renewal of the "exchange fund," which refers to the capture of Russian soldiers for future prisoner exchanges with Ukrainian prisoners in Russia. Zelenskyy highlighted that since the Kursk offensive, attacks on Sumy have decreased, and the number of civilian casualties there has also reduced. He released a video with him and the commander-in-chief of the Ukrainian troops, Oleksandr Syrskyi, who informed him about the reinforcement of troops in the eastern part of Ukraine, where Russia is continuing its military advance.
12:06 Possible Spying Activity: Report of Russian Drones in BrunsbüttelGerman newspaper "Bild" reports that suspected Russian drones have been seen over the largest industrial park in the Schleswig-Holstein region. Drones have frequently been spotted flying at high speeds over the decommissioned nuclear power plant and the LNG terminal in Brunsbüttel. The investigation into alleged espionage with sabotage intentions is being run by the public prosecutor's office in Flensburg. According to the internal police report, a hostile object, possibly a military drone, was detected. The "Bild" also states that the drones might be connected to Russian agents, potentially launched from civilian vessels in the North Sea. Read more here.
11:40 US Embassy in Kyiv warns of imminent air attacksThe American Embassy in Kyiv warns before Ukraine's Independence Day on August 24 (Saturday) of an increased risk of air attacks. The embassy expects Russia to attack Ukraine with drones and missiles in the coming days and over the weekend. Ukraine celebrates its 33rd anniversary of independence from the Soviet Union. The holiday has gained renewed importance for Ukrainians since the beginning of the conflict in Ukraine two and a half years ago. Last week, Ukrainian soldiers unexpectedly infiltrated Russian territory in the Kursk border region. Putin called it a provocation and threatened an "adequate response."
11:13 Military airfield in Volgograd on fireA fire breaks out at a military base in Marinovka, in the Volgograd region of southern Russia. Residents report hearing explosions. Local officials blame a Ukrainian drone attack for the blaze. No casualties are reported.
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10:41 Russia constructs prefabricated bunkers in KurskThe Russian border region of Kursk is reportedly building concrete shelters for the population due to the ongoing crisis with Ukraine. Governor Alexei Smirnov explained on Telegram that central locations for installing modular prefabricated bunkers have been designated. Bunkers are being set up at popular locations such as 60 bus stops. Smirnov shared a photo of a truck delivering one of the blocks. Bunkers are also being constructed in two other locations, including Kursk, where the Kursk NPP nuclear power plant is located. Russia accuses Ukraine of planning to attack the facility, while Ukraine denies these claims.
10:10 Ukraine reveals advance in Kursk regionUkraine reports over 40 attacks by Russian troops near the city of Pokrovsk, with most being successfully repelled. President Zelenskyy promises reinforcements for the area. Meanwhile, the advance in the Kursk region continues.
09:42 Russia claims downed drones in several regionsRussian authorities declare they have shot down several Ukrainian drones in the western part of the country. In the Volgograd region, Governor Andrei Bocharov reports "the majority of the drones were destroyed" near the village of Marinovka (see entry at 07:30). In the Kursk border region, Governor Alexei Smirnov says "two Ukrainian missiles and one drone were shot down by Russian air defense" (see entry at 10:41). In the Rostov region to the south, Governor Vasily Golubev reports a thwarted attack with five drones. Drones are also said to have been downed in the Russian regions of Voronezh and Bryansk.
09:09 Long-range weapons against Russian targets: Kyiv seeks approval from the StatesUkraine's Defense Minister Rustem Umerov meets with a group of US House Representatives in Kyiv. According to the Ukrainian ministry, Republicans Rob Wittman and Democrats David Trone discuss with Umerov the current situation at the front and America's policy on using long-range weapons against Russian targets. Umerov stated, "I stressed the need for us to receive immediate approval from our allies to fully utilize long-range weapons against Russian targets urgently. It's for the protection of our peaceful towns and villages."
08:36 Star Wars hero rallies for mine-clearing bots in UkraineThe well-known American actor, Mark Hamill (famous for his role as Luke Skywalker in "Star Wars"), along with Eastern Europe expert Timothy Snyder, aims to raise $441,000 for mine-clearing robots in Ukraine through their "Safe Terrain" campaign. These ingenious devices are capable of clearing mines, even in the most challenging spots, from a safe distance. Snyder declared, "One of the most heinous acts Russia has committed in Ukraine is the scattering of millions of mines. I've seen how people risk their lives in unoccupied areas near the front, trying to help others return to their farms and homes. With these bots, mines can be cleared, saving lives." Ukraine is severely polluted with mines, removing them could take decades.
08:01 Moscow braces for 'new reality' amid Kursk invasionThe Ukrainian attack on Kursk creates issues for Moscow's propaganda. Although the distances are vast between the regions, a Kremlin-linked communicator told Meduza, an independent Russian portal based in Riga, "There's no denying that the intrusion into Russian territory and the seizure of control over villages is a completely new and uncomfortable event." In an attempt to calm the jarred mood in Russia, which has become significantly more anxious since the Kursk invasion, the Kremlin is trying to prepare its citizens for living in a "new reality" and a "new normality." The message is clear: "The enemy has indeed infiltrated Russian territory, he is about to be subdued - but reclaiming the territory will take time, and the Russians must wait." Meanwhile, residents are encouraged to "convert the negativity and shock into something positive - specifically, by donating relief supplies for Kursk." It's believed that the fighting in Kursk could last several months.
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07:30 Volgograd military facility sustains fire after Ukrainian drone strikeRussian authorities confirm that a military facility in the Volgograd region of southern Russia was damaged in a drone attack. Andrei Bocharov, the regional Governor, reported on Telegram that the drone struck the facility, causing a fire. There were no reported casualties. Bocharov did not specify which particular military facility was affected. He mentioned that Marinovka, where Russia maintains an airbase, was targeted in the attack.
06:56 McMaster: Putin Hypnotised TrumpFormer US Security Advisor, General Herbert Raymond McMaster, claimed that Russian President Vladimir Putin successfully manipulated ex-US President Donald Trump. This is detailed in his book, "At War With Ourselves: My Tour of Duty in the Trump White House," as reported by "The Guardian." McMaster explained how Putin, a former KGB agent, utilized Trump's ego and insecurities with compliments. Putin allegedly called Trump 'an extraordinary individual, immensely gifted, without any doubts,' exerting a near-hypnotic influence on him. McMaster, who served as Trump's security advisor for approximately a year, had warned Trump about Putin, stating, "Mr. President, he's the world's best liar." He believed Putin had the confidence to 'play with Trump,' with the aim of reducing sanctions and persuading Trump to withdraw US troops from Syria and Afghanistan at a minimal cost.
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06:20 Reports of Fire at Russian Airport in VolgogradExplosions were reported in Kalach, Don, Volgograd region, overnight, according to various Russian Telegram channels. They are believed to be the aftermath of a drone attack, causing a fire at a nearby airport. The Volgograd region is about 900 kilometers southeast of Moscow. The Marinovka airbase in the village of Oktyabrsky, approximately 20 kilometers from Kalach on the Don, is largely speculated to have been the primary target. Witnesses reported hearing multiple loud explosions, accompanied by the unmistakable sounds of drones.
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04:27 Ukraine Speaks on Drone Strikes in RussiaUkrainian military intelligence service HUR spoke about the objectives of the nighttime drone attacks in Russia. They targeted Moscow's Ostafyevo airport, Millerovo airbase in Rostov region, and a radio communication center, as per HUR leader Kyrylo Budanov to "The War Zone" website. Around 50 drones were involved, with current evaluations determining any potential damages. Russian authorities confirmed in the morning that they had brought down 45 of the drones over Russian territory.
03:09 Security Measures for Elections in Kursk, RussiaDue to the early regional elections in the disputed Russian border region of Kursk, poll workers will be equipped with bulletproof vests and helmets. Extra polling stations will be set up in other regions for individuals who had to flee the area, according to chairperson of the regional election commission Tatiana Malachova, as reported by Russian news agencies. The region currently has a state of emergency. The elections for governors and regional parliaments are scheduled from September 6 to 8 in numerous Russian regions.
01:34 Fico Feels Constrained in Western Democracies' Foreign PoliciesSlovak Prime Minister Robert Fico expressed feelings of pressure in Western democracies' foreign policies. Those who deviate from the consensus on significant foreign policy matters face arbitrary pressure and threats of isolation by Western democracies, according to his statement marking the anniversary of the 1968 Moscow invasion. Fico likens the violent suppression of the "Prague Spring" in 1968 by Warsaw Pact troops to the current stranglehold on varying viewpoints in Europe. He is critical of the EU's military aid to Ukraine and has been criticized as pro-Russian due to his stance.
00:12 Ukraine Repels Most Russian Attacks near PokrovskUkraine reports that it managed to repel 44 out of 46 Russian attacks along the frontline near the city of Pokrovsk in eastern Ukraine over the day. Despite ongoing skirmishes at two other sections as of 9 PM CET, 238 Russian soldiers were reportedly killed or wounded. No information about Ukrainian casualties was provided, with Russia yet to comment on the situation.
23:09 Bryansk Incursion Allegedly Thwarted by RussiaRussia asserts that it thwarted an infiltration attempt by Ukrainian "saboteurs" into the Bryansk border region, which shares a border with Kursk. According to Bryansk's governor Alexander Bogomaz on Telegram, the "Ukrainian reconnaissance-sabotage group" was stopped by forces from Russia's FSB security service and Russian military. "The adversary was neutralized by fire," the message stated, with the situation said to now be under control.
22:15 Ukraine Anticipates Forthcoming Billion-Dollar Aid from the WestUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy voices hope for the prompt authorization of the promised billion-dollar assistance from the West, which will be partly funded by the proceeds from frozen Russian state assets. Although numerous political explanations have been given by Ukraine's partners, further elucidations are needed, according to Zelenskyy in his evening video statement. "But we need a practical system," he states, emphasizing the need for Ukrainian defense against Russian aggression. The G7 major industrialized nations agreed to provide additional financial aid to Kyiv at their June summit, with a generous mortgage of $50 billion guaranteed by earnings from frozen Russian assets.
21:52 Putin Commends Closely Tied Trade Relations with ChinaRussian President Vladimir Putin commends the strengthened cooperation with China, saying, "Our trade relations are thriving (...). The attention both governments give to trade and economic relations is bearing fruit," during a meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang in the Kremlin. China and Russia have "comprehensive joint plans and initiatives in the economic and humanitarian sectors," Putin adds. Li, according to the Kremlin, praises Chinese-Russian relations as being at an "unprecedented peak." Ties between Russia and China have deepened since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, with China now being a key trading partner for Russia due to Western sanctions.
21:20 Judicial Rejection of Appeal: Deposed Russian Deputy Defense Minister Remains in CustodyDeposed Russian Deputy Defense Minister Dmitri Bulgakov, accused of corruption, remains in detention. His application for conditional release and his appeal against detention have been rejected, as reported by the Russian news agency TASS. Bulgakov, responsible for the procurement of the Russian military before his dismissal, faces charges along with two alleged accomplices. Their firm reportedly received nine contracts from Bulgakov between 2022 and 2024, causing approximately 50 million rubles (around 500,000 euros) in damages.
20:41 Post Decree: Numerous Ukrainians in Hungary Face Forced Displacement from Refugee HousesAfter the enforcement of a decree in Hungary that denies Ukrainian refugees basic rights, numerous Ukrainians living there are at risk of losing their temporary homes. Various private refugee shelters have begun evicting Ukrainians, as reported by the organization Migration Aid. In Kocs, situated north of Budapest, approximately 120 refugees, predominantly Roma women and children hailing from the western Ukrainian region of Transcarpathia with a significant Hungarian minority, are forced to leave a guest house under the watchful eyes of the police.
Check out earlier updates here.
The Ukrainian President has announced a successful military operation in the Russian region of Kursk, leading to the capture of another village.
Once again, Russian President Putin has accused Ukraine of attempting to attack a Russian nuclear power plant, this time in Kursk, without providing any evidence.
