Ukraine War Briefing: Drone Activity Reported Near Zelenskyy‘s Flight Path During Dublin Trip
Kyiv/Brussels/Stavropol – ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed concern over recent Russian efforts to prolong the war and pressure Ukraine,following reports of a diplomatic push by Moscow to fracture Western support.This comes as Ukraine’s military claims to have struck a large chemical plant in southern Russia and as international discussions continue regarding the use of frozen Russian assets to aid Ukraine’s defense.
Zelenskyy, in an evening address from Kyiv, stated, “Our task now is to obtain complete facts about what has been said in Russia and what other reasons Putin has found to prolong the war and to pressure Ukraine, to pressure us, our independence.”
Reports indicate Moscow has been attempting to drive a wedge between Washington and European capitals, aiming to diplomatically isolate Ukraine and diminish Europe’s role in any future peace settlement.
meanwhile, Ukraine’s military reported late Thursday that its forces struck the Nevinnomyssky Azot plant in the stavropol region of southern Russia, causing a fire. The facility, described as one of the largest chemical plants in Russia, produces components for explosives, according to the military’s general staff, which reported the strike via Telegram. Russian officials have yet to comment.
On a separate diplomatic front, Belgium and Germany are discussing a European Commission proposal to utilize frozen Russian state assets held within the EU to support Ukraine. The plan, a “reparations loan,” faces legal concerns from Belgium, which holds the majority of the assets.Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever hopes for a “fruitful discussion” with Friedrich Merz on Friday. Merz has voiced support for the plan but emphasized the need for all EU countries to share the associated risks.
Turkey has cautioned both Russia and Ukraine against targeting energy infrastructure following a series of Black sea drone attacks on Russia-linked tankers claimed by Kyiv. Ankara has summoned both Russian and Ukrainian envoys in response.
over 130 Westminster MPs have urged ministers to prioritize protections for forcibly deported Ukrainian children in any US-brokered peace plan. Tens of thousands of children have been removed from their homes in Russian-occupied parts of Ukraine, with many reportedly subjected to indoctrination and militarization in camps - actions widely considered war crimes.
