At 22:12, Russian military forces inflict injuries upon four female civilians during an assault on a village in Kupjansk.
18:55 Russian Forces Assault Ukrainian Village, Wounding Four Women
Russian military personnel invaded the village of Novoosynove in the Kupiansk district of the Kharkiv region, injuring four women, as per Oleh Syniehubov, the head of the military administration of the Kharkiv region. Around 12:00, the "occupiers" attacked the village of Novoosynove in the Kupiansk district. This assault resulted in a private building catching fire, Syniehubov reported. The wounded individuals were transferred to a medical facility. Investigations related to the attack's aftermath are still ongoing.
21:03 UK Minister of Defense: "Ukraine Constantly Battles Against Russia's Overpowering Forces"
John Healey, the UK's Secretary of State for Defense, salutes Ukraine in honor of its Independence Day with an article on the "European Pravda" portal. "Exactly 33 years ago, Ukraine declared independence. It pledged a brighter, more affluent future as a sovereign democracy, free of Soviet Russia's control," Healey writes. Today, Ukrainians celebrate their Independence Day amidst a conflict. This is an existential struggle to endure as a self-governing and independent nation amidst Putin's violent and unlawful invasion. "Ukraine has constantly been outmatched against Russia's significantly more powerful forces and resources. Today, we honor the Ukrainian people," Healey writes. They continue to fight with remarkable valor, both the military and the civil population. The British must reassure their Ukrainian allies that they will stand by their side for as long as required. Therefore, the UK is launching a campaign today, encouraging people from the British Isles and beyond to let Ukrainians know they have their support. "We're asking you to 'Stir Up Support for Ukraine' on social media and share related information," Healey says.
20:05 Zelensky Boosts Syrsky to the Rank of General
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has promoted Oleksandr Syrsky, commander-in-chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, to the rank of general, as indicated by a decree issued by Zelensky. Previously, Syrsky held the rank of colonel general. The promotion coincides with the successful advance of Ukrainian troops in the Russian frontier region of Kursk.
19:19 Russians Lament Internet Disturbance - Ukrainian Hackers Accused
Ukrainian military intelligence (HUR) hackers have allegedly carried out a massive cyberattack on Russian internet service providers' servers, cites the Ukrainian portal "Kyiv Independent". "Dozen" of online platforms associated with industrial facilities in Russia were disabled, a source informed "Kyiv Independent" from the military intelligence. The most recent attack is said to have impacted a minimum of 33 servers and 283 office computers in industrial facilities, causing 21 websites to go offline, and damaging 15 cloud and data storage services. Ukrainian hackers are rumored to have left pro-Ukrainian messages on the affected online platforms. Russian users have been complaining about disruptions with telecommunications provider Rostelecom, unstable internet connections with mobile operators MTC and Beeline, and tech company Yandex and its related services. The source mentioned that those Russian platforms that have been hit by cyberattacks have supported and financed Russia's war against Ukraine.
18:31 Lukashenko Expresses "Admiration and Warmth" Towards Ukrainians in Insincere Greeting MessageBelarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko has elected to greet the Ukrainian people on their Independence Day despite deploying approximately a third of his army to the border with Ukraine. In a message sent via the propaganda Telegram channel Pul Pervogo, controlled by the regime, Lukashenko states that "the Belarusian territory has always treated the industrious and amiable Ukrainian people with special admiration and warmth." He adds that "besides sharing a common fate and ancestral ties, we also share the desire to be good neighbors and get along with each other." Lukashenko further asserts that "it is not only conceivable but also imperative to converse in the language of peace under the present challenging circumstances, for the sake of the present and future generations of Slavic people. There is no other option. Belarus, in turn, will continue to do its best to ensure regional stability as soon as possible."
17:02 Russian Presidents Approval Rating Dips Among Citizens After Kharkiv CampaignAs per a survey conducted by a Russian survey firm, the approval ratings and belief in Russian President Vladimir Putin have decreased following Ukraine's military operation in Kharkiv. This information is shared by Russian media outlet Meduza, situated in Latvia, which sourced it from media outlet Agentstvo. Meduza reveals that, as per the Russian survey firm's website, Putin's approval rating dipped by 3.5% compared to the previous week to reach 73.6%. Trust in Putin also declined by 2.6% during the same period, reaching 78.2%. This marks the steepest drop since Russia began its conflict with Ukraine.
16:24 London: Kremlin Pretends To NegotiateThe UK's Defence Intelligence Service states that despite senior Russian officials professing readiness to negotiate, a series of other statements affirm that Russia maintains a strong desire to achieve the Kremlin's original objectives for Ukraine. The UK's Ministry of Defence references a statement made by Dmitri Rogozin, the previous Russian Deputy Prime Minister and "senator" from the annexed part of Saporischschja, who boasted about destroying Ukrainian books. Rogozin suggests annihilating everything Ukrainian at its roots and asserts that any ceasefire with Ukraine would result in "our children's certain death." This is yet another installment in a long line of Ukrainophobic statements from high-ranking Russian officials, which undermine and endanger Ukrainian identity and culture, notes the UK's Defence Intelligence Service in its report. It further suggests that there may be many within the Russian government who support maximalist goals for the war, including the obliteration of Ukrainian culture, identity, and sovereignty. "Despite the alleged Russian desire to negotiate, which President's spokesman Dmitri Peskov affirmed on July 1, 2024," this message concludes.
15:50 Zelensky Introduces New Drone Missile in UkraineUkraine's military has reportedly employed a new weapon for the first time against the Russians - the Palianytsia drone missile, as mentioned by President Volodymyr Zelensky during Independence Day celebrations. "This is a new retaliation method against the aggressor. The enemy has been defeated. I thank everyone who made this possible - all developers, manufacturers, and our soldiers. I am proud of you," states Zelensky. This weapon will pose a challenge for Russia and it will be difficult to pinpoint exactly what the missile or drone has hit. It is a weapon of a "totally new category."
15:31 Ukraine Refugees Retain Claims As Late ReturneesThe Federal Ministry of the Interior reveals that Ukraine refugees can maintain their potential claims as late returnees. This will now be ensured through appropriate legislation, announces State Secretary in the Federal Ministry of the Interior, Juliane Seifert, during the "Homeland Day" event organized by the Federation of Expellees (BdV) in Berlin. The regulations should apply retroactively from the day the war began, adds Seifert for the refugees who fled war-torn Ukraine two and a half years ago. Even those who previously unsuccessfully applied for late return due to their war-induced displacement could now assert their claims and reopen their cases, provided they meet the additional legal requirements of the Federal Expellees Act.
14:56 Zelensky Warns Putin: Ukraine Will Not Become a Buffer StateUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasizes the people's love for freedom in his speech on Ukraine's Independence Day. "We will not allow our land to be turned into a neutral zone where the blue and yellow flag (Ukraine's national flag) will continue to fly legally," urges Zelensky in his speech. Ukrained will retaliate against the aggressor with interest, warns Zelensky. Those seeking to convert Ukraine into a buffer zone should be cautious that their country does not turn into a "buffer federation," he says, addressing Russian President Vladimir Putin in light of the counteroffensive in the Kursk region.
14:28 Five Civilians Killed in Russian Attack in Eastern UkraineAt least five civilians have lost their lives due to a Russian attack in eastern Ukraine this morning, according to local authorities. The emergency services and police are currently on the scene in the city of Kostyantynivka, as reported by Donetsk region governor Vadym Fillaschenko on Telegram. He once again urges civilians to seek shelter. Kostyantynivka is located near the front line, where Russian troops have gained ground in recent months and have repeatedly targeted nearby cities like Pokrovsk, a critical logistics center for Ukrainian forces.
14:06 Nestor Makhno's Estate Destroyed in Russian Attack in SaporischschjaThe historic house and property of Ukrainian anarchist fighter Nestor Makhno in Hulyaipole has been destroyed in a Russian attack on the Saporischschja region, as reported by the Kyiv Independent newspaper based on information from the Ukrainian National Police. Makhno's house, later converted into a museum, was burned down by the Russian forces after the attack. The Ukrainian National Police reports that Russian forces launched 306 attacks on nine front-line settlements in the Saporischschja region during the previous night, causing damage or destruction to several buildings and infrastructure. No civilians were injured or killed.
13:38 115 Ukrainian Soldiers Return from Enemy Custody115 Ukrainian troops have returned from enemy custody, as announced by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky via Telegram. "We remember each one of them. We're doing our utmost to bring everyone home," Zelensky wrote. He expressed gratitude towards the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for facilitating the prisoner exchange negotiations with Moscow. Additionally, Zelensky shared some photos of the released prisoners on Telegram, which include members from various Ukrainian military branches, including the army, national guard, navy, and border guard.
13:25 Prisoner Swap Between Russia and Ukraine Anticipated for TodayAn anticipated prisoner swap between Russia and Ukraine is set for today, with each side planning to release 115 captives, according to a government official from the mediating UAE. This marks the first such exchange since Ukraine launched its offensive against Russia this month. The Russian news agency RIA, citing the Ministry of Defense in Moscow, confirmed the exchange. Russian troops held captive by Ukraine during their offensive in the Kursk region are reportedly located in Belarusian territory. This will be the seventh prisoner exchange facilitated by the UAE since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. The UAE, an important US security ally, has maintained favorable relations with Russia throughout the conflict, causing frustration among Western governments and consolidating ties with Kyiv.
13:16 Polish President Duda and Lithuanian Prime Minister Simonyte Attend Celebrations in KyivUkraine celebrates its 33rd Independence Day today with Polish President Andrzej Duda and Lithuanian Prime Minister Ingrida Simonyte among the attendees. Pictures released by the Ukrainian Presidential Office depict the festivities in Kyiv.
12:56 Umerov: Latvia Pledges to Assist Ukraine with $126 Million in Military Aid by 2024Latvia has pledged $126 million (€112 million) in military support to Ukraine and intends to participate in expanding the Drone Coalition initiative. This commitment was announced by Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov via Facebook after meeting with a Latvian delegation headed by Latvian Defense Minister Andris Spruds. According to Umerov, one of the key themes in their discussions was the strengthening of the Drone Coalition, with Latvia assuming an influential role. Latvia will supply Ukraine with numerous drones to help defend against large-scale Russian aggression. The coalition currently includes numerous participating countries.
12:16 Zelensky Streamlines Path for Ukraine's Admission to International Criminal CourtUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has paved the way for Ukraine's entry into the International Criminal Court (ICC) by enacting legislation ratifying the Rome Statute. The ratification signifies a significant step towards Ukraine's integration with the EU. The parliament had previously approved this move. The ICC has issued international arrest warrants for Russian President Vladimir Putin, among others.
11:38 "Freedom from Moscow's Conflicting Influence": Zelensky Signs Law Prohibiting Pro-Russian Orthodox ChurchOn Ukraine's independence day, President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a law restricting the pro-Russian Ukrainian Orthodox Church. Zelensky asserted that this measure would bolster Ukraine's independence. The text of the legislation was published on the Ukrainian parliament's website. Parliament members approved the bill on Tuesday, which enforces a ban on organizations with ties to Moscow. Russia condemned the legislation. The bill sets a deadline for religious organizations to dissociate themselves from Russia. The enactment and implementation of the law may take several years. As Zelensky declared, the Ukrainian Orthodox Church is "embracing liberation from Moscow's divisive force" today.
11:02 Media Reports: Russian Ammunition Depot Destroyed by Drone StrikeUkraine has reportedly struck a Russian military target: According to independent sources, a Russian ammunition depot was hit by Ukraine-deployed drones. The depot in question is believed to be a warehouse located near Ostrogoshsk, about 100 kilometers south of Voronezh. While the authenticity of these reports remains uncertain, Russian officials have declared a state of emergency in three nearby settlements due to the "resolution of fire and explosive object detonation consequences." (For more information, refer to the entry at 9:54 AM)
10:26 Zelensky: War Has "Returned to Russia"In a video message marking Ukraine's Independence Day, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky declared that the war has "returned to Russia." Zelensky reiterated that Russia aimed to "obliterate" Ukraine, but instead, Ukraine celebrates its 33rd independence anniversary. Zelensky's message was filmed in a border region where Ukrainian forces launched a surprise attack against Russia on August 6.
10:54 Russia Enacts Emergency Measures in Voronezh Region After Nighttime Drone Incident Russia has declared an emergency situation in parts of the Voronezh region close to Ukraine following a late-night drone incident. Governor Alexander Gusev made the announcement via Telegram, stating that Russian armed forces shot down five drones. Unfortunate debris, however, ignited a fire that triggered the detonation of explosives. Fortunately, no civilian properties were damaged, according to Gusev. However, urgent actions by authorities were required in three settlements, causing the evacuation of 200 individuals. Two women were injured by the blasts, with one requiring hospitalization, he noted on Telegram.
09:29 Ukraine Highlights Heavy Personnel Losses on Russian Side: 1160 Soldiers in a Day Official reports from Kyiv indicate significant personnel losses on Russia's side: 1160 Russian soldiers have been either killed or wounded within 24 hours. According to Ukraine's Ministry of Defense, a staggering 606,490 Russian soldiers have been reportedly eliminated since the start of the conflict in February 2022. Furthermore, Ukraine claims it has destroyed an additional 9 tanks (totaling 8,542 tanks) since the invasion. Ukraine has also accounted for over 16,600 armored vehicles and approximately 14,000 drones that either fall into its possession or are eliminated by Russian forces. These statistics remain unverified as Moscow remains silent about its own casualties in Ukraine.
08:45 Zelensky: "Gradually, We're Pushing the Russian Army Out of Kharkiv" Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reports that Russian forces are being compelled to retreat from the Kharkiv region. In his evening address, he made this statement following a conversation with General Oleksandr Syrskyi, commander-in-chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. "Kharkiv is a city of courage, a city of life and people. Since May, our defense forces have successfully repelled Russian attempts to breach Kharkiv and destroy our city and the entire Kharkiv region. Gradually, we're pushing the Russian army out."
08:06 Medical Assistance Needed in Kherson Oblast After Russian Shelling: 10 Injured Ten individuals were wounded in Russian shelling in the Kherson Oblast, according to Ukrainian state news agency Ukrinform, citing Oleksandr Prokudin, head of the military administration in the Kherson Oblast.
07:45 Russian Artillery Barrage Targets Grain Facilities in Sumy Oblast Russian artillery strikes targeted various grain infrastructure facilities in the Ukrainian Sumy Oblast, as reported by the regional prosecutor's office, according to Ukrinform state news agency. Russian forces launched artillery attacks on grain infrastructure late yesterday afternoon.
07:16 Drone Attack Reportedly Damages Munitions Depot in Russian Voronezh Oblast A drone strike reportedly caused a fire and an "explosion of explosive objects" last night in the Russian Voronezh Oblast, according to the "Kyiv Independent," quoting regional governor Aleksandr Gusev. Russian air defense units apparently downed several unmanned aerial vehicles over the oblast, with falling debris leading to the fire and explosion at an undisclosed location. The Russian Telegram channel Astra claimed that the explosion occurred at a munitions depot in Ostrogozhsk. The Ukrainian forces have carried out a series of drone strikes on Russia's military infrastructure and oil industry in recent months.
06:30 USA Imposes Sanctions on Over 400 Entities and Individuals The United States is imposing sanctions on more than 400 organizations and individuals alleged to support Russia's war in Ukraine, according to the U.S. Department of State. "Today's action targets Russia where it hurts," said Aaron Forsberg, Director of Economic Sanctions Policy at the U.S. Department of State. The sanctions target, among others, Russia's energy sector and companies in Turkey and the United Arab Emirates. Additionally, Chinese companies suspected of assisting Moscow in circumventing Western sanctions and beefing up its military are also targeted. For example, the import-export department of the Chinese Dalian Machine Tool Group is said to have supplied dual-use goods worth $4 million to Russian companies. Liu Pengyu, spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in Washington, stated that Beijing firmly opposes unilateral sanctions and that normal trade between China and Russia should not be restricted.
05:52 Belarus and China Increase Security Cooperation Belarus and China have agreed to intensify cooperation in the areas of security, as well as finance and energy, according to the Ukrainian newspaper "Kyiv Independent." Both countries aim to strengthen security cooperation and also in financial and energy sectors, while collaboration in industrial supply chains is also bolstered.
03:16 Starmer Pledges Long-Term Support for Ukraine on National Day British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has promised ongoing support for Ukraine on its national day. "My message to all Ukrainians, whether on the battlefield or in the UK, is clear: we are with you today and for eternity," Starmer stated in a message of greeting. He reiterated this sentiment in his conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during his recent visit to London, Stamer said. Not only the British government, but the entire nation stands behind Ukraine. "We are here for you as long as you need us," concluded Starmer's message with the Ukrainian greeting "Slawa Ukrajini" (Glory to Ukraine).
01:29 Norway Provides Permission for Ukrainian Grenade Production and Funds ItNorway has given permission for Ukraine to develop 155-mm grenades and has agreed to fund the project. The Norwegian business Nammo has entered an agreement with a Ukrainian defense company to allow the manufacturing of artillery grenades using Norwegian funds. "Currently, Norway is contributing by providing ammunition from its own reserves and directly from industries. Now, Nammo wants to share its plans with Ukraine. This means that the Ukrainian military can replenish more quickly," stated Norwegian Defense Minister Bjørn Arild Gram.
23:54 Kiesewetter after Incident at NATO Base Geilenkirchen: Could We Be a Target of Russian Hybrid War?
Following the enhancement of the alert level at the NATO base in Geilenkirchen and the possibility of Russian drone attacks, German security officials are urging caution. "For a long time, Germany has been a target of Russia's hybrid war, and consequently, military facilities, and specifically those related to NATO in Germany, are under potential scrutiny for sabotage and espionage," says CDU foreign policy expert Roderich Kiesewetter to "Tagesspiegel". Earlier, the security level at the NATO base in Geilenkirchen was temporarily increased to the second-highest level, Charlie, due to a potential threat. According to Kiesewetter, the Geilenkirchen base is highly significant for NATO as it hosts the air-based early warning and control system AWACS. "The Charlie security level signifies that NATO is implementing appropriate safety measures, including against potential drone intrusions, and there are indications of potential threats," he adds. However, the heightened risk level and the threat of Russian attacks are not new information.
22:21 Latvia Announces Largest Drone Package to Ukraine Yet
Latvia announces its largest container of drones headed for Ukraine to date. 1,400 drones from Latvian manufacturers have been completed, as mentioned by Latvian Defense Minister Andris Sprūds on X, completing the procurement of over 2,700 drones from its own industry. Latvia, in alliance with the UK, is spearheading an initiative to supply one million drones to Ukraine. Its members, including Germany, have committed to supporting drone production and supplying drones and parts to Ukraine.
21:34 Biden Pledges New Military Aid to Ukraine - Particularly for Air Defense
US President Joe Biden declares a fresh military aid package to Ukraine in a conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The package includes air defense missiles, drone defense equipment, anti-tank missiles, and ammunition, as per the US Presidential Office. Biden reiterated the "unwavering support of the US for the Ukrainian people" to Zelenskyy. No specifics regarding the financial scope of the new aid are disclosed.
21:29 Zelenskyy Urges Immediate Weapons Deliveries
The Ukrainian military requires immediate support from international allies. President Zelenskyy strongly encourages Ukraine's Western partners to deliver the promised weaponry packages without delay. "On the front lines, we fight with shells and equipment, not with words like 'tomorrow' or 'soon'," he says in his evening video address. According to him, Ukraine is awaiting shipping containers of weapons or equipment "that have been agreed upon and decided, but yet to be delivered". He does not offer any specifics.
20:58 Kursk Residents Express Disappointment: "We're on Our Own"While combats persist in the southern Russian region of Kursk, residents seem to be growing increasingly disillusioned: with authorities they believe have left them behind, with the Ukrainian military, and even with their own military. A 28-year-old expressed her frustration to the "Moscow Times". "To Russia, we're just a part of the map. To the Ukrainians, we're enemies supporting Putin's regime. Everyone here is on their own." She accuses authorities of lying and merely claiming there's no reason to panic. And a 32-year-old elaborates that though people blame Ukraine for the attack, they also doubt the competence of the Russian military: "How could they miss the gathering of such a vast number of Ukrainian troops at the border?" If there were individuals who previously sympathized with Ukraine or remained neutral, their sentiments have now turned into fierce anger, she says. Another Kursk citizen states: "The Ukrainians are not our friends at the moment." However, a Red Cross volunteer in Kursk shows no animosity towards Ukraine, saying they "are also just victims in this situation".
You can review all previous developmentshere.
22:26 International Community Condemns 'The Attack on Ukraine' Leaders and organizations around the world have expressed their disapproval of 'The Attack on Ukraine,' acknowledging Ukraine's right to sovereignty and self-determination in the face of Russian aggression.
22:10 Russiancessionists accused of coordinating with 'The Attack on Ukraine' Reports suggest that claims of "occupiers" attacking 'Novoosynove' and 'Kupiansk district' were coordinated with 'The Attack on Ukraine,' highlighting the interconnectedness of these conflicts.
