In a sharp escalation of tensions, Russia has blamed Ukrainian drone attacks for a fire at a nuclear power plant located in its western Kursk region, coinciding with Ukraine’s Independence Day celebrations. The Russian authorities reported that multiple power and energy installations faced overnight drone strikes, though the Russian press service stated the fire was swiftly brought under control and no injuries were reported. It confirmed that radiation levels remained normal despite damage to electrical transformers.
Simultaneously, a fire ignited at Ust-Luga port in the Leningrad region, where about ten drones believed to be of Ukrainian origin were intercepted. The governor of the region highlighted that debris from the downed drones led to the fire, although Ukrainian officials have yet to comment on these allegations.
On this historic day, which commemorates Ukraine's break from Soviet rule in 1991, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney arrived in Kyiv to meet President Volodymyr Zelensky. They are expected to conduct a press conference emphasizing Ukraine’s need for support during this trying time, as noted by Zelensky’s chief of staff, Andriy Yermak. In a show of solidarity, King Charles has sent heartfelt wishes to the Ukrainian people, acknowledging their resilience amid ongoing conflict.
In a further display of international support, the United Kingdom announced Ukrainian flags would be displayed above Downing Street, while reaffirming its commitment to training Ukrainian soldiers until at least the end of 2026. Norway added to the military aid, pledging approximately 7 billion kroner (about $693 million) in air defense systems, collaborating with Germany to bolster Ukraine's defenses.
The situation in eastern Ukraine remains tense, with Russian forces reporting minor territorial gains despite heavy losses. Meanwhile, high-level diplomacy continues, with U.S. President Donald Trump expressing frustration over the stalled peace negotiations following meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
As the conflict endures, Zelensky has repeatedly called for an immediate ceasefire and accused Russia of obstructing productive dialogue aimed at ending the hostilities. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated that President Putin is willing to meet but insists that the agenda for such talks is not yet prepared, suggesting a continued impasse in efforts to resolve the conflict peacefully.
