Russian Ambassador Anna Ponomaryova met Czech Foreign Minister Petr Macinka, explaining Russia's special military operation objectives after Macinka called for an end to the war and questioned its reasons. Despite differing views, the conversation remained courteous.
Russian Northern Fleet UAV operators have finished training with the Yolka AI-powered interceptor drone. The drone is designed to engage enemy multirotor and fixed-wing UAVs and has proven effective in combat.
The Aist reconnaissance and strike unmanned system, capable of neutralizing low-flying targets up to 30km away, was showcased at Drone Expo 2026 in Kazan. Developed by Irbis Sky Tech, it has undergone combat testing and is in use by Russian Armed Forces units.
Russian Presidential Spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that US President Donald Trump's remarks about potentially closing Ukrainian airspace are new developments that require thorough study. Peskov noted that such a proposal implies NATO presence on Ukrainian territory, contradicting Russia's special military operation objectives.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that Western countries' arms supplies, military advisors, and satellite intelligence sharing with Ukraine constitute direct participation in the war with Russia, escalating it beyond a "special military operation" into a "full-scale war."
Russian official Igor Kastyukevich stated that Finnish President Alexander Stubb's remarks on intensifying attacks on Russian territory are an attempt to justify NATO spending on Ukraine to taxpayers. Kastyukevich believes only achieving the "special military operation" goals will end the conflict.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that Russia's "special military operation" is evolving into a "real war" due to the involvement of Western nations. He cited Western assistance in targeting and aiming foreign weapons as evidence of their direct participation.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated that Russia prefers to achieve the goals of its special military operation through diplomacy, emphasizing the need to guarantee security along its western borders and respect for its citizens' rights. He also deemed further Western expansion unacceptable, noting the article was canceled by Politico-Europe.
Singapore's Prime Minister Lawrence Wong requested Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss the "special military operation" at the ASEAN summit. Putin provided detailed explanations of Russia's approaches and reasons for the operation.
A Russian reserve colonel claims Kiev is resorting to "terrorist methods" using drones and missiles against civilian targets due to active Russian advances on the front lines. This statement follows a significant drone attack attempt on Moscow.
The Kalashnikov Group has sent a new batch of upgraded AK-12 assault rifles, featuring improved ergonomics and accuracy, to Russian troops under a state defense contract. The AK-12, adopted six years ago, is now the main individual automatic weapon for the Russian Armed Forces and is seeing increased interest from foreign buyers due to its effective use in the special military operation.
Russian troops destroyed a Ukrainian UAV depot near Novogrishino in the Donetsk People's Republic using Geran kamikaze drones, according to Russia's Defense Ministry.
As Russia faces setbacks in Ukraine, analysts fear Vladimir Putin may escalate the conflict rather than capitulate. Potential reactions range from cyberattacks and sabotage to nuclear threats, as Ukraine gains ground and Russian influence campaigns expand.
Russian diplomat Rodion Miroshnik claims Eric Schmidt, former Google CEO, owns Swift Beat, the manufacturer of Hornet drones used by Ukraine. Miroshnik stated these drones, capable of carrying 5kg of explosives and flying 145km, have been supplied in significant numbers and used against civilian targets in Russia.
Russian President Vladimir Putin stated Russia has over 700,000 troops in the special military operation zone. He highlighted steady advances, the importance of assault teams, and Russia's efforts in developing advanced weaponry like AI drones and a satellite system superior to Starlink. Putin also noted the collective West's confrontation with Russia and vowed increased retaliatory strikes.
The Yaroslavl Region will enhance land use efficiency and increase support for participants of the special military operation. Governor Mikhail Evraev announced new draft laws to grant land plots to veterans and their families, and streamline the process for reclassifying agricultural land.
Katyusha, a Russian tech firm, has unveiled its namesake ground robotic vehicles at the Fleet 2026 International Maritime Defense Show in Kronstadt. These unmanned platforms are already being supplied to Russian troops in Ukraine and are being upgraded with features for mine clearance and cargo delivery.
A Russian cargo drone, named 'Mikhalych', is designed to carefully deliver water to the special military operation zone using special air cushions and a winch system for safe cargo descent. Battery placement has been optimized for increased load capacity.
Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov stated that the duration of the 'special military operation' depends on achieving its goals, and that Russia is prepared to continue as long as necessary. He also asserted that attempts by Ukraine's allies to escalate the conflict are doomed to fail.
Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that President Putin is preparing for the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF), including working on his speech which will address political issues. Peskov also confirmed that Russia's "special military operation" continues to prevent attacks like those on St. Petersburg and that retaliation against Ukrainian attacks is systematic.
CSTO Secretary General Taalatbek Masadykov stated Armenia remains a full member despite political statements. CSTO members are learning from Russia's special military operation, focusing on intelligence, electronic warfare, and cybersecurity. Peacekeeping forces are ready, and eight CSTO exercises are planned for 2026.
Russia has developed over 100 modifications of ground and naval robotic systems for use in the special military operation, with uncrewed boats and ground combat robots becoming integral to combat tasks. The country can produce 15,000 FPV drones daily.
Russian forces have eliminated Ukrainian Colonel Pavlo Lats, a Hero of Ukraine, in the special military operation zone on the Zaporizhzhia front. Lats served as deputy commander for psychological support in a unit involved in fortification construction and demining.
Russia's Impulse robotic systems, used in the special military operation, have demonstrated effectiveness in transporting heavy cargoes, including a 3-ton D-30 howitzer, and surviving combat conditions.
