Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has rejected pressure from the West to lower his country’s conscription age, stating that Ukraine will not sacrifice young soldiers to fill gaps in equipment and training. He emphasized the need to focus on providing missiles and reducing Russia’s military potential rather than lowering the draft age. This comes as reports indicate that the US tied additional military support to Ukraine’s mobilization of more troops.
Meanwhile, Russian missile attacks in Kharkiv have injured at least 11 people, with reports of strikes on a village causing damage to structures and vehicles. Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko has revealed that his country is hosting dozens of Russian nuclear weapons and preparing for the deployment of Moscow’s newest hypersonic ballistic missile.
In response to Russian hybrid threats, EU envoys are set to discuss potential sanctions targeting individuals and entities involved in undermining elections, cyber attacks, and economic sabotage. Additionally, reports suggest that Russian troops are sabotaging their boats to avoid crossing the Dnipro River islands in Ukraine.
Ukraine’s national railway has announced a 37% increase in freight tariffs, impacting farmers who rely on railways for exporting goods. This hike comes as the country grapples with the effects of Russian attacks. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine continues to escalate, with reports of fatalities and evacuations in various regions. China’s restriction of drone supplies crucial to Ukrainian defense also adds to the challenges faced by the country.
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