Yesterday, a meeting between Ukrainian and Russian delegations took place in Istanbul. The Ukrainian side demanded a full and unconditional ceasefire, but Russia responded with another attack on Odesa, using drones to hit residential buildings and symbolic city landmarks. Kharkiv and Cherkasy regions also came under attack.
Meanwhile, Sochi and Adler in Russia suffered attacks near an oil depot, resulting in disruptions at the local airport. Amid these events, both sides only agreed to continue contacts and discussed possible future prisoner exchanges. Ukraine expressed its wish for a leaders' summit, which Russia refused, demanding capitulation first.
In Ukraine, the largest protest since the start of the full-scale war took place. Citizens took to the streets over controversial changes to anti-corruption agencies — SAP and NABU — and due to cumulative social and political issues, from army reform to state policy. Protesters called for independence of anti-corruption bodies, army reform, and an end to Russian influence in government and parliament.
President Zelensky promised to introduce a new draft law guaranteeing the independence of anti-corruption institutions. The controversial lawmaker Buzhansky, who initiated the criticized amendments, was noted for his pro-Russian rhetoric, drawing criticism both domestically and from international partners.
Amid continued hostilities, Ukrainian society actively supports its military. A new batch of drones was delivered to the armed forces thanks to volunteers and donors. Ukrainians call for unity and reforms to effectively resist Russian aggression.
