Dan Johnson

Former Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov has called for a legal, secure and realistic mechanism to hold general elections despite the continuing war and martial law. His appeal follows his unexpected dismissal, protests demanding his return, and criticism of alleged corruption and loyalty-based appointments. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s office argues that elections amid missile and drone attacks would be unrealistic, while some opposition lawmakers say Ukraine faces a choice between elections and political disorder. Zelenskyy’s term formally expired in May 2024, but Ukrainian law suspends elections under martial law. The dispute has intensified amid anti-corruption operations, changes in the defense leadership and continued Russian attacks.

Russia reported that at least seven people were killed in what officials called Ukraine’s largest attack of 2026, involving about 822 drones, including hundreds targeting the Moscow region. A Wildberries logistics warehouse near Moscow was hit, while casualties were also reported in Rostov, Belgorod and elsewhere. Russian strikes on Ukraine killed at least seven people, injured more than 39 and damaged civilian sites including a book market in Kyiv. Both sides say they target military infrastructure and accuse the other of harming civilians. The intensified aerial campaign comes as Ukraine develops domestic drones and ballistic missiles while facing uncertainty over further US supplies of Patriot interceptors.

Russia reported that at least seven people were killed in what officials described as Ukraine’s largest drone attack of 2026, involving 822 drones, including hundreds aimed at Moscow. A Wildberries logistics warehouse near Moscow was damaged, while deaths were also reported in Rostov, Belgorod and the Moscow region. Russian strikes on Ukraine killed at least seven people and injured more than 39, damaging homes, civilian infrastructure and a book market in Kyiv. Both sides accuse the other of targeting civilians. The attacks highlight the war’s increasing reliance on drones and missiles, Ukraine’s efforts to develop domestic weapons, and constraints on its access to US Patriot air-defence systems.

A Russian barrage of 115 drones and 24 ballistic missiles killed 21 people and injured dozens in and around Kyiv after Ukraine failed to intercept any of the missiles. Ukrainian officials say dwindling supplies of US-made Patriot interceptor missiles are leaving the country vulnerable, while President Volodymyr Zelensky argues that additional interceptors could have saved lives. The shortage is compounded by the number of missiles needed to stop each ballistic missile, Russia’s continued large-scale attacks and uncertainty over further US assistance. Ukrainian experts warn that the Patriot systems themselves could become Russian targets until more interceptors arrive.

A major Russian attack on Kyiv using 115 drones and 24 ballistic missiles killed 21 people and injured dozens, while destroying warehouses, a railway station and other infrastructure. Ukraine says depleted supplies of US-made Patriot interceptor missiles meant none of the ballistic missiles were intercepted. President Volodymyr Zelensky argues that more interceptors could have saved lives and is pressing European and US partners for supplies. Military analyst Ivan Stupak warns that the shortage leaves both Ukrainian civilians and the Patriot systems themselves exposed, as Russia continues launching large missile barrages.