Russia's ambassador to the UK, Andrey Kelin, has acknowledged that the war in Ukraine has exacted a heavy toll on Moscow, stressing that Russian forces cannot afford to lose the conflict. In an interview with Sky News, Kelin stated, "We cannot lose this war. We simply have to win it. That is the way we still continue to do it." He conceded that the war has cost Russia significantly, noting, "I cannot deny that the war cost a lot. And this year we have a certain very low percentage of growth." Kelin also admitted that Ukrainian strikes have damaged Russian oil infrastructure, including export facilities in St. Petersburg, but claimed Russia has learned to rebuild.
Ukrainian Drones Strike St. Petersburg
Ukrainian drones struck an oil terminal in St. Petersburg and a warship in dry dock at a nearby naval base, just hours before President Vladimir Putin's economic forum was set to begin. The attack on Putin's hometown, often referred to as "Russian Davos," was a clear attempt to embarrass the Kremlin chief. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed the strikes, saying they targeted a fuel terminal and a military facility in Kronstadt. A video released by Ukraine showed a drone hitting the corvette Boiky in dry dock. Plumes of smoke were visible from the city center, and witnesses reported loud explosions.
Western Allies Plan for Negotiations
According to Bloomberg News, Germany, France, and the UK are working with Kyiv on plans to engage Russia in negotiations to end the war. Officials from these three largest European economies have discussed the matter with their Ukrainian counterparts, signaling a potential diplomatic push.
NATO Chief Warns Russian Recruits
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte warned young Russians considering joining the war, stating, "You are being sold a raw deal. Men like you who join the fight - you won't be trained. Equipment they'll provide you with is substandard. There is a very high chance you'll die or be wounded." He added that Russian forces are suffering losses of over 30,000 soldiers per month.
US Promises Ukraine Aid News Soon
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio told a Senate subcommittee that there will be news "pretty soon" on $400 million in Ukraine aid approved by Congress but delayed by the Department of Defense. A bipartisan group of senators has pressed for the release of the funds.
EU Opens Accession Talks with Ukraine
Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko announced that all EU members have agreed to open talks with Ukraine and Moldova on the first cluster of accession issues. Cyprus, holding the EU presidency, confirmed preparations for formal talks on rule-of-law and democratic standards, calling it a "significant milestone." Hungary dropped objections after reaching an agreement on the rights of the Hungarian minority in Ukraine.
Strikes in Crimea Kill Three
Ukrainian drone attacks on the Russia-annexed Crimea peninsula killed at least three people in Simferopol and injured seven, according to Kremlin-installed officials. In Sevastopol, air defenses intercepted over 20 drones, with debris damaging buildings.
Germany Blames Russia for UN Security Council Loss
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul suggested that Russia stirred up opposition to Germany's bid for a UN Security Council seat, citing Berlin's support for Ukraine as a factor. Austria and Portugal were elected instead.
Putin Warned of Unsustainable War Costs
Top Russian finance officials and the central bank have reportedly warned Putin that the cost of the war is unsustainable, as Ukraine continues to inflict frontline losses and damage energy infrastructure deep inside Russia. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha stated that Moscow is "losing on the battlefield" despite recent aerial attacks that killed at least 22 people.
