• According to Ukrainian sources, the target was an operational headquarters from which intelligence, sabotage, and repression operations were coordinated in the south of the country. The attack took place in Russian-controlled territory, where the FSB maintained a forward operating base. Videos and preliminary reports show a powerful explosion followed by thick smoke in the area. So far, the Russian Ministry of Defense has not confirmed casualties, although pro-Russian channels on Telegram admit to “significant losses” in the region. This is one of Ukraine’s most successful attacks against a Russian elite structure in recent months.

• Military analysts highlight Ukraine's ability to penetrate deep into Russian defenses thanks to the use of long-range drones and effective intelligence. The operation comes at a time of heightened tension on the southern front, where Russia is attempting to advance while Ukraine seeks to weaken its rear and logistical capabilities. Zelenskyy emphasized that "every strike of this kind brings us closer to victory and the complete liberation of our territory."

Ucrania acaba de destruir un importante centro de mando ruso, matando a 100 tropas de élite.

El presidente Zelenskyy confirmó que un preciso ataque con drones del SBU aniquiló una sede de fuerzas especiales del FSB en la región de Jersón.
pic.twitter.com/VJ3Pd7gvas

— Alerta Noticias UKR 24 (@UKR_token) May 21, 2026

• The historic Bernardine Monastery and the adjacent Church of St. Andrew in the heart of Lviv were struck by a Russian drone today, triggering a large and intense fire that is consuming parts of the 17th–18th century complex. Thick black smoke and visible flames have been reported rising from the Baroque landmark, which is one of the most significant religious and architectural monuments in western Ukraine.The attack occurred in the late afternoon local time. Emergency services, including firefighters and police, rushed to the scene, but heavy smoke and the risk of structural collapse are complicating efforts to contain the blaze. Initial videos circulating on social media show flames engulfing the roof and bell tower area of the church.

• The Bernardine Monastery (also known as the Church of St. Andrew) is a UNESCO tentative World Heritage site and a masterpiece of Ukrainian Baroque architecture, built between 1600 and 1760. It houses valuable frescoes, altars, and historical artifacts, and has survived multiple conflicts over the centuries. Ukrainian officials have described the strike as a deliberate attack on cultural heritage. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reacted swiftly on X (formerly Twitter), calling the incident “another Russian war crime against Ukrainian culture and history” and vowing that those responsible “will be held accountable.” The Ministry of Culture of Ukraine confirmed that experts are already preparing documentation for international bodies, including UNESCO and the Hague Tribunal.

• Russia has not yet commented on the specific strike. However, Moscow has repeatedly denied targeting civilian or cultural sites, claiming its forces only strike military objectives.This is the second major cultural site in Lviv hit in recent months, following damage to other historic buildings during previous Russian missile and drone barrages. The attack comes amid intensified Russian aerial campaigns against Ukrainian cities as the war enters its third year. Local residents and clergy gathered near the site to pray and watch the firefighting efforts. Many expressed shock and sorrow, describing the monastery as “the soul of Lviv.” The situation remains fluid. Firefighters are still battling the blaze, and the full extent of the damage — both structural and to irreplaceable artworks — will not be known until the fire is fully extinguished.

The Bernardine Monastery in Lviv (Church of St. Andrew) is on fire after being hit by a Russian drone today. pic.twitter.com/do6rBdU2qk

— K13 News (@K13News) March 24, 2026

Over the past few hours, there has been an increase in the flow of people toward subway stations, where entire families are bringing blankets, food, and basic necessities for shelter. The Kyiv subway, due to its depth and structure, has become one of the main areas of civilian protection against bombings.

A climate of tension

Local media are reporting intermittent air raid alerts and warnings of possible nighttime attacks, which has increased concern among residents. Although no recent impacts on the city have been confirmed, the atmosphere is one of extreme caution.

Authorities have reiterated recommendations to the public to follow safety protocols, stay informed through official channels, and go to designated shelters in case of emergency.

A routine marked by war

Since the beginning of the conflict, thousands of Kyiv residents have had to adapt their daily lives to the constant threats, using subway stations, basements, and makeshift shelters as temporary spaces for rest and protection.

The sight of people sleeping on train platforms has become a symbol of civil resistance in the face of the protracted war, reflecting the ongoing impact of the conflict on the daily lives of the Ukrainian population.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation while the capital remains on high alert.

#Ucrania
Los habitantes de Kyiv se preparan para pasar la noche en las estaciones de metro ante la amenaza de nuevos ataques, según informan los canales locales. pic.twitter.com/4UMVa09NZb

— K13 News (@K13News) January 20, 2026

“We are waiting for a full and lasting ceasefire, starting tomorrow, to provide the necessary basis for diplomacy. There is no point in prolonging the killings. And I will be waiting for Putin in Turkey on Thursday. Personally, I hope that this time the Russians will not look for excuses,” Zelenskyy said in a post on his official social media accounts.

The statement comes hours after Putin offered direct peace talks without preconditions, also naming Turkey as the host and President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan as the mediator.

This will be the first direct meeting between the two leaders since the start of the Russian invasion in 2022, marking a crucial diplomatic moment after years of confrontation and failures in indirect dialogues.

Sources in the Turkish government confirmed that logistical and security preparations are already underway for the meeting, which is expected to take place in Istanbul. The international community is watching with caution, but with renewed hope, the possibility of a real ceasefire and the beginning of a path towards ending the conflict.

So far, the Kremlin has not officially confirmed Putin's presence, although Russian officials have signaled positively about the Ukrainian proposal.

According to the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense, the operation targeted military infrastructure, fuel depots, and logistics centers, which they claim are being used to support the Russian offensive in eastern Ukraine.

Russian media report that several explosions were heard in Belgorod, Kursk, Bryansk, and even in the Tula region near Moscow. Local authorities confirmed damage to energy facilities and power outages in several areas, although the Kremlin has not provided an official death toll.

Unverified images posted on social media show large plumes of smoke and fire in at least three different locations across Russian territory.

“This is a proportional response to months of indiscriminate bombing of our cities,” said Ukrainian military spokesman Oleksandr Motuzyanyk.

Russia has vowed to respond “forcefully,” while international analysts warn of a possible escalation of the conflict in the coming days.

The bombing occurred around 3:00 a.m., when several Iranian-made Shahed suicide drones hit residential areas and a local market, causing fires, structural damage, and widespread shock among the population.

“It was like hell. Everything was shaking, and explosions could be heard in succession,” said Olena Kravchenko, a resident of the Saltivka district. Rescue teams worked for hours to evacuate the victims and extinguish the fires caused by the explosions.

Regional Governor Oleh Syniehubov confirmed that at least 12 of the injured are in serious condition, and several children are among those affected. The attack comes amid an intensification of Russian operations in the area, while diplomatic talks continue without concrete results.

The international community has condemned the attack, calling it a violation of international humanitarian law due to its impact on the civilian population.

According to Ukrainian authorities, Russia launched three ballistic missiles equipped with cluster munitions at a densely populated residential neighborhood. The attack occurred as many families were preparing to commemorate Easter.

“This attack was deliberately directed against civilians,” denounced Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov, who called the bombing a war crime. “There are no military facilities in this area. Only homes, parks, and schools.”

The city's hospitals are overwhelmed, treating dozens of wounded, many of them in serious condition. Rescue teams are still working in the affected area searching for survivors under the rubble, while authorities assess the damage.

The use of cluster munitions, banned by more than 100 countries, has been repeatedly denounced by international organizations, as these bombs release multiple submunitions that can detonate even long after the initial impact, posing a prolonged threat to the civilian population.

This latest attack follows a series of recent bombings in eastern Ukraine, amid the stalemate in diplomatic negotiations and a tightening of the Russian offensive against the country's major cities.

International organizations and European leaders have condemned the attack and demanded a firm response from the international community.

ASÍ AMANECE EN UCRANIA

Rusia lanzó 3 misiles balísticos con municiones de racimo contra un área residencial de la segunda ciudad más grande de Ucrania, Járkov, este Viernes Santo por la mañana.

1 persona murió y más de 70 resultaron heridas. pic.twitter.com/fybOgmRJJk

— Alerta Noticias UKR 24 (@UKR_token) April 18, 2025

Alerta Noticias UKR 24 @UKR_token

During a press conference in Berlin, Scholz described the attack as "a new example of the Kremlin's unjustified brutality against the civilian population" and urged Moscow to accept an immediate ceasefire to move toward a diplomatic solution.

“Russia must stop this absurd war. The Ukrainian people deserve to live in peace, not under the constant sound of missiles,” the German prime minister stated.

Scholz joined other European leaders such as French President Emmanuel Macron, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who also expressed their condemnation of the bombing and reiterated the European Union's support for Ukraine.

“Europe is united in defending the fundamental principles of international law and will not tolerate these attacks,” the chancellor added.

For its part, the Ukrainian government has requested an urgent session of the UN Security Council and the deployment of more military and humanitarian support to the affected areas.

The Sumi offensive follows an escalation of Russian attacks in northeastern Ukraine in recent days, as peace negotiations brokered by Turkey and the United Nations attempt to find a minimum consensus for an end to hostilities.

"Putin will die soon, that's a fact. And when that happens, it's all over," Zelensky stated in a recent interview with international media. The Ukrainian president did not specify whether his statement was based on intelligence information or a political analysis of the current situation in Russia, where there are growing rumors about the stability of Putin's government.

Since the beginning of the invasion, the Ukrainian resistance has managed to halt the advance of Russian troops with Western support. Over the past year, tensions within the Kremlin leadership and internal challenges have called into question the longevity of Putin's leadership. However, the Russian president has demonstrated remarkable political survivability, consolidating his power despite international sanctions and military losses.

Zelensky's statements have sparked widespread debate in the international community. Some experts believe the Ukrainian leader is seeking to bolster the morale of his citizens and allies, while others suggest there may be intelligence backing his claim.

At the moment, the Kremlin has not responded to Zelensky's remarks, but uncertainty about Putin's future remains a central issue in the development of the conflict.

President Zelensky: Putin will die soon, that is a fact, and everything will be over. pic.twitter.com/2GJnLmbNFF

— K13 News (@K13News) March 27, 2025

According to the report, thousands of children have been killed or injured, while many others have suffered forced displacement and family separations. The conflict has also led to severe disruptions in education, healthcare, and psychological well-being, leaving long-term scars on the nation’s youngest citizens.

"The war has stolen the childhood of an entire generation," said a UN spokesperson, calling for immediate international efforts to protect and support Ukrainian children affected by the violence.

The report urges both Russia and Ukraine to prioritize the safety of children, ensure access to humanitarian aid, and prevent further violations of international human rights laws.

The process will involve key stakeholders, including representatives from the UN, the European Union, and other countries interested in facilitating dialogue. Although expectations are moderate, the start of these negotiations could pave the way for a reduction in hostilities and the creation of a framework for future peace talks.

Conditions and Obstacles
While the Ukrainian government has expressed its willingness to negotiate, it has made it clear that any agreement must respect the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Russia, on the other hand, has insisted on the need for security guarantees and the recognition of the territories it currently controls.

Despite the willingness to engage in dialogue, attacks continue in several regions, and skepticism about the success of the talks remains high.

International Reactions
European and US leaders have expressed caution regarding the negotiations, noting that any truce must guarantee a lasting and verifiable cessation of hostilities. Meanwhile, the international community is closely monitoring developments, hoping that this will be the first step toward a diplomatic resolution to the conflict.

The attack occurred on the same day that talks on the conflict in Saudi Arabia began, bringing together representatives of several nations. Experts say the offensive could be an attempt by Kiev to increase pressure on Moscow ahead of the negotiations. Russian sources reported that air defense systems were activated in several regions of the country, including Moscow, Kursk and Belgorod, and that most of the drones were shot down before causing significant damage.

However, fires and explosions were reported in some industrial areas. The Ukrainian government has not yet made an official statement about the attack, but analysts believe it is part of a strategy to undermine Russian infrastructure and demonstrate its ability to strike strategic targets deep inside enemy territory. The escalation of the offensive comes at a crucial moment in the conflict, and the impact of this attack on international negotiations remains to be seen.

https://x.com/K13News/status/1899376686530998496

Bashneft, the affected complex, is one of the largest refineries in the country and consists of three main facilities:

 Bashneft-UNPZ, Bashneft-Novoil and Bashneft-Ufaneftekhim, with a total refining capacity of 23.5 million tons of oil per year.

According to preliminary reports, the explosions caused fires in several sections of the refinery.

Emergency teams have been deployed to the area, although there is still no official information on the extent of the damage or possible casualties.

This attack represents a severe blow to Russia's energy infrastructure and a clear sign of the increased range of drones used in the conflict.

Russian authorities are expected to issue a statement in the coming hours with more details on the impact and possible retaliation.

????️????/1. Just now! Russian oil refinery in Ufa was targeted by long range kamikaze drones, 1350km from the frontline!

This is the first strike on Ufa oil refinery, and it’s also the furthest targeted one.

There are several complexes under the common name "Bashneft" in Ufa: The… pic.twitter.com/2n2QVCiWGY

— Special Kherson Cat ???????????? (@bayraktar_1love) March 2, 2025

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated that Europe must take responsibility for defending itself, paving the way for the possible sending of European troops to Ukraine. The statement was made during an emergency summit in London to discuss the future of support for Volodymyr Zelensky following the unexpected collapse of negotiations with Donald Trump at the White House.

Key points from the summit:
Europe takes the lead in defending the continent, without relying exclusively on the US.
Possible deployment of European troops to reinforce Ukraine's defense.
Britain, France and Ukraine discuss a ceasefire plan to be presented to the US.
UK allocates £1.6 billion ($2 billion) to Ukraine, including 5,000 air defense missiles.

"Europeans need to take control of their own security. Russia cannot dictate the future of the continent," Starmer said.

What does this mean?
With US support uncertain, European leaders are preparing to act independently, ensuring that Ukraine continues to resist the Russian offensive.

Global impact
The decision to increase military support for Ukraine could heighten tensions with Russia and mark a new chapter in European geopolitics.

Follow the developments of the summit and the upcoming decisions on the war in Ukraine!

Amid uncertainty over the continuation of US military and financial support for Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelensky declared that Europe will have to assume this responsibility if Washington stops the transfers.

"If the US stops giving us money, we will demand at least $250 billion from Europe," Zelensky said during a meeting with allies.

What is at stake?
The US Congress has not yet approved new military aid packages for Ukraine. ???? The Joe Biden administration is facing resistance from internal opponents to continue funding the war effort.
Europe is already contributing billions of dollars in aid, but may struggle to cover the amount demanded by Zelensky.

International reactions
Zelensky's statement has sparked debate among European leaders, who are already facing internal economic challenges and public pressure over prolonging the conflict. France and Germany have indicated that they may continue supporting Ukraine, but have not yet commented on the specific amount mentioned.

What could happen now?
If the US does indeed reduce or suspend funding, Europe may have to reevaluate its strategy for supporting Ukraine, either by increasing financial transfers or seeking a diplomatic solution to the conflict.

Follow the next developments regarding the future of war financing in Ukraine!

???????????????????? WACTH: O presidente ucraniano Volodymyr Zelensky exige US$ 250 bilhões da Europa, se os Estados Unidos pararem de financiar sua guerra.

“Se os EUA deixarem de nos dar dinheiro, exigiremos pelo menos
250 Bilhões de dólares à Europa.” pic.twitter.com/vHyeWcCVZc

— Conservatism And Elegance ???????? (@ThayzzySmith) March 1, 2025

The city of London will host an emergency summit this Tuesday (20) to discuss new forms of aid to Ukraine and debate issues related to European security.

Global leaders gathered
The meeting will be attended by leaders from several Western nations, including the United States, France, Germany, the United Kingdom and Italy, as well as representatives from the European Union and NATO.

The main agenda items of the summit:

* Increased military and financial support for Ukraine
* ​​Measures to strengthen Europe's security
* Additional sanctions against Russia
* Coordination for future peace negotiations

Host's statement:
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the meeting aims to strengthen cooperation between allies and ensure that Ukraine has all the support it needs to resist the Russian invasion.

Next steps:
The summit discussions are expected to define new military and economic aid packages for Ukraine, as well as measures to strengthen the security of Europe's borders.

Follow updates on the decisions taken at this crucial summit for the future of Europe!

????AGORA - Começa a Cúpula de emergência para discutir ajuda à Ucrânia, em Londres, com a presença de diversos líderes mundiais

A segurança da Europa também será discutida. pic.twitter.com/DqbEHvsAEX

— SPACE LIBERDADE  (@NewsLiberdade) March 2, 2025

During the meeting, both leaders discussed the challenges facing Ukraine and the whole of Europe, coordination with international partners, and concrete steps to strengthen Ukraine's position and end the war with a just and lasting peace.

A key agreement: UK supports Ukraine's defence
A major milestone was reached with the signing of a Loan Agreement between Ukraine and the United Kingdom, in the presence of both leaders.

• The loan will strengthen Ukraine's defence capabilities.
  It will be repaid from the proceeds from frozen Russian assets.
• The funds will go directly to the production of weapons in Ukraine.
• This agreement represents an act of justice, as whoever started the war will be responsible for financing its consequences.

A strategic ally in times of war
Zelensky expressed his gratitude to the British people and government for their continued support since the beginning of the Russian invasion.

"We are happy to have strategic allies like the United Kingdom, who share our vision of a safe future for all," said the Ukrainian president.

London's support strengthens international cooperation to support Ukraine in its defense and reconstruction, while the world watches the outcome of this conflict.

What impact will this agreement have on the war and on the stability of Europe?
Leave us your opinion. 

London. A meaningful and warm meeting with Prime Minister @Keir_Starmer.

During our talks, we discussed the challenges facing Ukraine and all of Europe, coordination with partners, concrete steps to strengthen Ukraine’s position, and ending the war with a just peace, along with… pic.twitter.com/IAwcPgbhYW

— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) March 1, 2025

More than a dozen European leaders and partners including Canada gathered in Kyiv on Monday to mark the third anniversary of the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion and reaffirm their commitment to Ukraine.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced a €3.5 billion EU financial aid package to inject additional liquidity into Ukraine’s limited budget and facilitate the purchase of military equipment for its domestic industry.

The €3.5 billion is an advance on a larger €50 billion aid fund set up by the European Union in early 2024, called the Ukraine Facility. While Brussels has been able to cover Ukraine’s financial needs for the entire year, arms supplies after the summer remain uncertain. Meanwhile, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said his country would provide a €1bn package of military systems to Ukraine this year. The summit was marred by US President Donald Trump’s attempts to start a peace process by engaging with Russia bilaterally and undoing three years of transatlantic politics.

The EU insists that both Ukraine and the bloc itself must participate in the negotiations. Von der Leyen and Trudeau argue that global security is at stake in Ukraine Global security is at stake in the negotiations to end the war, EU chief executive Ursula von der Leyen warned. “Autocrats around the world are watching closely to see whether there is any impunity if international borders are violated or a neighbouring country is invaded, or whether there is real deterrence,” she said.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau echoed that sentiment. Canadians, he said, “believe deeply that this is not just about Ukraine. This is about the rules, the values ​​and the principles of sovereignty, of independence, of territorial integrity that protect every country in the world. We all depend on those rules to be able to build peace and security.”

In a series of setbacks to Kiev’s aspirations, Trump has in recent days called President Zelensky a “dictator,” suggested Ukraine was to blame for the war and ended the three-year diplomatic isolation of Putin by the United States. Senior U.S. officials have also signaled to Ukraine that its hopes of joining NATO are unlikely to materialize and that the country is unlikely to regain the territory controlled by the Russian military, which amounts to nearly 20 percent of the country.