Russia Claims Full Control of Ukraine's Luhansk Region
The situation in Ukraine remains volatile, with both sides suffering losses, and the international community providing support to Ukraine, while calling for a peaceful resolution to the conflict, with Germany accusing Russian President Vladimir Putin of wanting to subjugate Ukraine and spread fear throughout Europe.
Russia has announced that it has fully conquered the Ukrainian region of Luhansk, with occupation governor Leonid Pasechnik stating that the territory has been "100 percent liberated", marking a significant milestone in its advance on Ukraine's eastern front.
The US has halted some weapons pledged to Ukraine, citing a review of its military support and assistance to other countries, while Ukrainian forces continue to strike targets within Russia, including the Kirovske airfield and a Russian intelligence base in the Bryansk region. Russia's advance has led to the creation of a buffer zone, with officials claiming it will stretch 70-120 kilometers deep into Ukraine, however, experts believe this is an excuse to capture more Ukrainian territory.
Ukraine continues to score tactical successes, using long-range weapons to destroy Russian targets, and has increased its production of air defense systems, with Germany promising 9 billion euros in military aid this year. The European Union has agreed a new long-term trade deal with Ukraine, covering imports of food products, while the International Monetary Fund has completed its eighth review of Ukraine's $15.5 billion support program, paving the way for an additional $500 million disbursement.
The conflict in Ukraine has significant implications for the region and the world, with key Ukrainian cities now under Russian control, including Mariupol, Donetsk, Luhansk, Melitopol, and Berdiansk, which hold significant military, trade, and political value. The international community continues to call for a ceasefire and diplomatic solution to the conflict, with US President Donald Trump's senior envoy for Ukraine and Russia, Keith Kellog, urging an immediate ceasefire and trilateral talks to end the war.