Russian forces intensified their aggression against Ukraine with a drone strike involving over 130 drones, prompting international criticism. Casualties included a child in Russia and multiple injuries in Ukraine from shelling. Ukraine intercepted several drones but remains uncertain about the total damage. Calls for increased defense spending in Germany and potential US sanctions against Russian oil emphasize the need for support. Additionally, proposals for a peacekeeping force and changes to refugee policies reflect ongoing political and military developments.
Russia’s Drone Assault on Ukraine
In a recent escalation, Russian forces launched a significant drone attack on Ukraine, deploying over 130 drones, as confirmed by Ukrainian military reports. This wave of aggression has sparked criticism from EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, who has taken Chancellor Scholz to task for his handling of the situation in Ukraine.
Casualties and Damage Reported
Local authorities in the Belgorod region of Russia reported that a nine-year-old child lost their life during a drone strike attributed to Ukraine. Additionally, two others, including another child, sustained injuries in the incident, as shared by regional governor Vyacheslav Gladkov via Telegram.
In the Kherson region of Ukraine, Russian shelling resulted in the deaths of at least two individuals and injuries to six more, according to governor Olexander Prokudin. The attack caused damage to multiple residential buildings and vehicles, highlighting the ongoing struggle Ukraine faces against Russian aggression along the Dnipro River front line.
Ukraine’s Defense Measures
The Ukrainian military reported that overnight, they faced a barrage of 132 Russian drones, managing to intercept 58 of them. However, 72 drones went off the radar, leaving uncertainty about the extent of damage inflicted.
In the realm of defense spending, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius has called for Germany to invest significantly more than two percent of its GDP into defense initiatives. He expressed that while Germany is currently meeting NATO’s spending target for the first time in decades, it is not sufficient given the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
International Responses and Peacekeeping Needs
US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen indicated that the US may pursue additional sanctions against tankers transporting illegal Russian oil, emphasizing the need to diminish Russian oil revenues to bolster Ukraine’s position.
Austrian military expert Colonel Markus Reisner suggested that a peacekeeping force of up to 150,000 soldiers would be necessary for effective peacekeeping in Ukraine. He stressed that a mere observer mission would be inadequate, highlighting the logistical complexities involved in establishing a secure environment.
Ukrainian Drone Strikes and Political Critique
Ukrainian drones recently targeted a fuel depot in the central Russian region of Oryol, igniting a major fire. This attack underscores the increasing use of drone warfare in the ongoing conflict.
Kaja Kallas criticized Chancellor Scholz’s reluctance to support Ukraine with long-range weaponry, asserting that a stronger military presence would empower Ukraine in negotiations. She also advocated for Ukraine’s NATO membership as a crucial security guarantee.
Leadership Changes and Policy Proposals
In a significant shift, Commander Olexander Luzenko of the Ukrainian army group Donetsk has reportedly been replaced by Olexander Tarnawskyj following a series of defeats. Tarnawskyj has a notable history, including leading successful counterattacks but faced challenges earlier this year.
In a political move, Union chancellor candidate Friedrich Merz proposed transitioning Ukrainian war refugees from citizen benefits to asylum seeker benefits, coupled with expedited work permits and recognition of professional qualifications to aid their integration into the workforce.