Ukrainian drones targeted Russia's Omsk oil refinery, its largest, located 2,700km from Ukraine. The attack, confirmed by local authorities, occurred before a Nato summit. Russia claimed most drones were destroyed, with no casualties. President Zelenskyy hailed it as a significant achievement, extending Ukraine's strike capability to Siberia.
China has conducted a long-range missile test in the Pacific, which Australia's foreign minister Penny Wong has condemned as "destabilising to the region" and "lacking in transparency". The test missile, carrying a dummy warhead, landed in designated waters and was described by China as a "routine arrangement" of military training.
Ukraine is pursuing significant defense agreements with at least seven NATO nations by the end of the year, aiming to become a provider of military hardware and expertise. Having already signed "drone deals" with six countries, including Middle Eastern states, Azerbaijan, Latvia, and Lithuania, Kyiv is leveraging its experience in drone warfare and air defense.
Ukraine intensifies diplomatic efforts with the US and Europe, seeking increased Western support to encourage Russia to negotiate. Leaders gather at the G7 summit to restate support, while discussions continue on peace talks and military aid, including crucial missile production.
Russia's Foreign Ministry Ambassador at Large Rodion Miroshnik has accused Ukraine's 'Drone Deals' export program of being a corruption scheme designed to launder European funds for military equipment. Miroshnik claimed the program creates a false impression of Ukrainian independence from foreign aid while allowing Ukrainian shell companies to divert European arms funding.
