German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has suggested that Ukraine might need to cede territory to achieve a peace deal with Russia, with the prospect of European Union membership offered as an incentive. However, he cautioned against rapid accession.
Overnight Attacks and Casualties
An overnight Russian drone attack on Odesa wounded 14 people, including two children, and damaged residential buildings and port infrastructure. Meanwhile, Russia claimed to have taken control of two villages in eastern Ukraine.
Ukrainian Counterstrikes
Ukrainian drone attacks caused a major fire at Russia's Tuapse oil refinery on the Black Sea, leading to an evacuation. Separate drone attacks on civilian cars in Russia's Belgorod region killed three people.
International Reactions
Russian President Vladimir Putin praised Iran for its independence against US and Israeli pressure, offering Moscow's assistance following a visit from the Iranian foreign minister. Additionally, a superyacht linked to sanctioned Russian billionaire Alexey Mordashov transited the Strait of Hormuz, a blockaded shipping lane, raising questions about its passage.
