Ukraine war briefing: Peskov admits fuel supply problems after strikes on Russian energy sites
Russia acknowledges fuel disruptions after Ukrainian strikes; NATO downs drone over Latvia; multiple civilian casualties reported in Ukraine.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has admitted to "certain problems" with fuel supplies following a series of Ukrainian attacks on Russian energy facilities. The state-run Tass news agency reported, citing the energy ministry, that a surge of airstrikes has disrupted supplies in several southern regions. Peskov sought to blame unfounded panic-buying.
NATO intercepts drone over Latvia
A French Rafale fighter jet shot down a drone that entered NATO member Latvia's airspace from Russia on Monday. The Latvian army said the drone was guided by Russian electromagnetic warfare before crossing the border. Latvian Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs praised the "swift decision-making and professional action." A NATO official stated the incident demonstrates the alliance's resolve to deter and defend.
Drone incident in Moldova
Moldova's defence ministry reported that a drone crossed into the country early Monday and apparently exploded as Russia attacked neighboring Ukraine. Fragments indicating an explosion are being examined. Moldova's foreign ministry emphasized the risks the Russian war poses to regional security.
Russian strikes in Ukraine
On Tuesday morning, Russian attacks in the Kharkiv region killed three people and wounded six, local authorities said. Kharkiv Mayor Igor Terekhov reported six wounded in the city. In the Zaporizhzhia region, two people were killed and at least 18 injured, including four children aged 5-13, in a drone attack that damaged homes, vehicles, and market kiosks. In Nikopol, a 49-year-old woman was killed and four others injured. In Sumy region, a 71-year-old cyclist was killed by mortar and drone fire. In Odesa, three people were wounded when a drone hit a public transport stop. At least seven were wounded in Sloviansk, Donetsk region.
Train strike in Crimea
A Ukrainian drone struck a passenger train traveling from Moscow to Simferopol in occupied Crimea, killing the driver's assistant and injuring the driver. Train traffic in Crimea was halted, passengers evacuated, and replacement buses provided. Ukraine denies targeting civilians.
EU sanctions and US talks
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas announced a new round of sanctions against Russia, including 80 listings targeting the military-industrial complex, human rights violators, and propagandists. She stated Western sanctions have already cost Moscow an estimated $1.2-1.5 trillion. President Zelenskyy reported a "very positive" conversation with US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, discussing prospects for talks at the upcoming G7 summit in France and thanking the US for its positive assessment of Ukraine's position.
