Tinshui Yeung

Russia says Ukraine launched its largest attack of 2026, involving about 822 drones, with strikes killing at least seven people in Russia and damaging a Wildberries warehouse near Moscow. Russian attacks across Ukraine also killed at least seven people, injured dozens and damaged a Kyiv book market and other civilian sites. Both sides accuse the other of targeting civilians. The escalation highlights the war’s increasingly aerial character, Ukraine’s reliance on Western air-defence systems and its growing development of domestically produced drones and ballistic missiles.

A Turkish governor removed from office after criticism of his sports attire and social media activity has received support from thousands who signed a petition urging his reinstatement. Mehmet Fatih Çiçekli, dismissed by presidential decree, had drawn attention for sharing videos of cycling and rowing as part of efforts to promote sport and tourism in Ardahan. Critics argued his behaviour undermined the dignity of the office, while supporters highlighted his contributions to youth development and local sporting culture.

A Turkish governor, Mehmet Fatih Çiçekli, was dismissed following criticism over his cycling attire and social media activity, prompting thousands to sign a petition urging his reinstatement. Critics, including a CHP MP, argued he compromised the seriousness of his office, while supporters highlighted his contributions to youth development and cycling tourism. His removal was ordered by President Erdoğan, and the petition claims no political motive while emphasizing his positive impact on Ardahan.