Ukrainian aviation has delivered a powerful blow to Russian forces in the Donetsk region, striking a hangar loaded with armoured personnel carriers, military trucks, and troops using US-supplied GBU-39 bombs. The precision strike, confirmed by reconnaissance, destroyed a significant amount of Russian hardware and personnel in what Ukrainian sources say was a direct and efficient mission. The GBU-39, a high-precision small diameter bomb, was instrumental in delivering this strategic setback to Kremlin forces.
Fighter drone teams from Ukraine’s Fifth Assault Brigade continue to operate effectively in the Kramatorsk direction, targeting Russian vehicles, fortifications, and infantry units. Ukrainian forces have successfully repelled multiple assaults in the area despite the Kremlin’s escalated efforts to push through defensive lines. According to the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, defenders have inflicted considerable losses on invading troops and equipment. The intensifying conflict highlights the strategic importance of the Kramatorsk front, where Ukrainian troops maintain firm control.
Meanwhile, in the Vovchansk sector, Ukraine’s Hart Border Guard Brigade successfully struck two Russian ammunition depots and a drone control point. UAV operators from the Furia Strike Unit were responsible for these precise and effective hits.
Despite increasing aggression from Kremlin forces, Ukrainian resilience and tactical discipline remain unwavering. US and NATO military aid continues to reach Ukraine, although US Senator Marco Rubio admitted there are no spare Patriot air defence systems in American stockpiles. Washington is now collaborating with NATO allies to secure further protection for Ukrainian airspace.
However, Ukraine’s consumption of ammunition continues to outpace the West’s production capacity, posing an urgent logistical challenge. Europe has now imposed additional sanctions against three Russian military organisations involved in the development and deployment of chemical weapons in Ukraine. This follows verified reports from the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons confirming Russia’s use of banned substances on the battlefield.
Among the banned agents used by Russian troops are chlorobenzylidene malononitrile (CS) and chloracetophenone, which cause severe respiratory and mucosal damage. These agents were found in grenades such as the RGVO and K-51, both employed against Ukrainian positions. The use of these agents, confirmed by video evidence and field sampling, constitutes a violation of the Chemical Weapons Convention, which the Russian Federation claims to uphold but has failed to explain or justify.
On the diplomatic front, former ICC President Song Hyun said Ukraine has sufficient grounds to pursue North Korean dictator Kim Jong-un at the International Criminal Court. North Korea has reportedly provided military support to Russia’s war effort.
Meanwhile, a recent Harvard CAPS Harris poll reveals a majority of Americans believe President Donald Trump was not tough enough on Russian dictator Vladimir Putin. Fifty-nine percent of respondents said Trump failed to apply sufficient pressure during his presidency. Over 60 percent said they support increased arms deliveries to Ukraine and additional sanctions if Russia continues to stall peace talks. Despite Trump’s recent phone call with Putin claiming progress towards negotiations, Kremlin demands remain unchanged and unyielding, including full Ukrainian capitulation.
