Russian Orthodox Church expands its influence across Africa amid war in Ukraine

Russia claims key Ukrainian city Kostyantynivka has been captured

Russia's troops have expanded their military offensive in eastern Ukraine. They say they have taken control of Kostyantynivka in the Donetsk region. Russia's President, Vladimir Putin, says the city has strategic significance in expanding the nation's security zone. Ukraine's general staff insists the city remains under the control of Ukrainian forces.

Smoke Gets in Your Eyes

Recent escalations in the war reflect intensified military exchanges and growing strategic pressure on Russia, as Ukraine expands its drone capabilities and shifts battlefield dynamics. Ukrainian strikes have targeted Russian oil infrastructure and logistics routes linked to Crimea, while Russia has responded with increased missile and drone attacks, including strikes on cultural sites. Russian officials have also issued renewed nuclear threats, including proposals to create a radioactive buffer zone in western Ukraine, raising security concerns in Europe.

Russia attacks Ukraine with 7 Iskander missiles and 189 UAVs: 3 missiles and 174 drones downed

Russia has attacked Ukraine with seven ballistic missiles and 189 UAVs of various types since the evening of 25 June. Ukrainian air defence forces have shot down or jammed three missiles and 174 of the drones. The Russian attack is ongoing.

Russia Targets Ukraine’s Fortress Belt in Major Offensive

Russia is slowly advancing into Kostiantynivka, a strategic city in Ukraine, while its progress along the broader 1,200-km front has mostly stalled. Fighting has started in the city, with Russian soldiers trying to infiltrate its outskirts, indicating that close-quarters combat may soon occur. Kostiantynivka is vital as it forms part of Ukraine’s defensive line in [] The post Russia Targets Ukraine’s Fortress Belt in Major Offensive appeared first on Modern Diplomacy.

Ukraine's drone campaign turning Russia's oil system into new frontline

The escalation of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine has taken a highly destructive turn along the frontlines and border zones, shifting the focus of tactical strikes heavily onto retail energy networks. In recent months, Russian forces have initiated a systematic campaign targeting civilian petrol stations within a 30 to 50-kilometer radius of the Ukrainian border. Utilizing a combination of kamikaze drones, heavy artillery, and precision guided missiles, these strikes have left hundreds of local distribution points in ruins across regions like Kharkiv, Sumy, and Chernihiv.