Russia has accused Ukraine of launching drone attacks that resulted in a fire at a nuclear power plant in the Kursk region. This incident occurred overnight as Ukraine celebrated 34 years of independence. Russian officials reported that various power and energy facilities were targets of these drone strikes. The fire at the nuclear plant was quickly contained, with no reported injuries, and while a transformer was damaged, radiation levels remained normal.
The United Nations’ nuclear watchdog acknowledged media reports of the incident but has yet to confirm details independently. The director-general stressed the importance of protecting all nuclear facilities.
Ukraine has not commented on these allegations. Additionally, there was a fire at the Ust-Luga port in Russia’s Leningrad region, reportedly caused by debris from Ukrainian drones. The regional governor stated that around ten drones were intercepted in this area.
In its defense, Russia’s military claimed to have intercepted 95 Ukrainian drones over its territory during the night. Ukraine’s air force reported that Russia launched 72 drones and decoys, including a cruise missile. Out of these, 48 were either shot down or jammed.
These developments were significant as Ukraine marked its Independence Day, celebrating its freedom from the Soviet Union in 1991. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed the nation from Kyiv, emphasizing Ukraine’s determination to build a secure and peaceful future. He asserted that the direction of Ukraine’s future is in its own hands, a subtle reminder as discussions about international support continue.
U.S. special envoy Keith Kellogg attended the celebrations in Kyiv, where he was honored with the Ukrainian Order of Merit. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney also visited for discussions with Zelenskyy, highlighting the enduring support between Canada and Ukraine.
On the military front, Norway announced a substantial new aid package worth about $695 million for air defense systems, demonstrating its commitment to Ukraine’s defense alongside Germany.
During the Independence Day events, Pope Leo XIV prayed for peace in Ukraine, expressing solidarity with the suffering population. He also sent a telegram to President Zelenskyy, calling for dialogue to lead towards peace.
Meanwhile, fighting persists on the front lines in eastern Ukraine, where Russia claimed to have taken control of two villages in the Donetsk region over the weekend.
