On August 21, Leryi Klochok reviews the latest news, from the ongoing war in Ukraine to international security guarantee negotiations.
The global media is currently focused on possible security guarantees for Ukraine after a potential freezing of the war, which has challenged Russia and provoked negative reactions from the Kremlin to Western support for Ukraine.
Last night saw massive attacks on Ukraine: Russia launched over 500 drones and 40 missiles, hitting both civilian and energy infrastructure in Lviv, Zaporizhzhia, Mukachevo, and Dnipropetrovsk. Meanwhile, Ukrainian drones struck a key oil refinery in Novoshakhtinsk, Rostov region, supplying Russian military fuel. Ukrainian defense forces also attacked Russian positions in temporarily occupied Sevastopol.
Europe and the US are discussing four options for Ukraine's security guarantees. These involve military training in Ukraine by British and French instructors, air patrols with F-35s, extension of NATO's Article 5 protection, and possible bilateral agreements similar to US deals with Japan or South Korea. However, no final model has been agreed, and US involvement is expected to be limited.
An Italian proposal is also considered, requiring signatory countries to meet within 24 hours after aggression and make a decision on aid for Ukraine, without mandatory troop deployment.
Russia faces growing difficulties: drone attacks have halted parts of its refining industry, fuel prices are rising, and President Putin continues to nationalize assets, transferring them to loyal oligarchs.
In the Middle East, Israel has launched an offensive on Gaza City, aiming for full control over the Gaza Strip, with mass reservist mobilization despite internal opposition to Prime Minister Netanyahu's policy.
The situation remains dynamic: Ukraine awaits Western security decisions, Russia’s energy sector is under pressure, and crises in the Middle East are ongoing.
