August 21 saw several significant developments for Ukraine. The country has ramped up production of its FP1 drone, a cheap analogue to Iran's Shahed drones, now achieving about 100 units daily, approaching Russia's reported 150-160 units per day. Each FP1 costs roughly $55,000, making it much more affordable than its Russian counterparts. Ukraine's military also confirmed strikes on major Russian facilities, such as an oil plant in Rostov region and drone/Logistics hubs in Donetsk and Voronezh regions.
Meanwhile, Italian police arrested a Ukrainian national named Serhiy, suspected of involvement in the 2022 Nord Stream pipeline explosions. According to German media, Serhiy likely coordinated actions during the operation, though he was not directly executing the tasks himself.
On the political front, discussions on a possible meeting between Presidents Zelensky and Putin continue, but both sides remain firm on their demands, stalling the process. The US, particularly Donald Trump, has taken a wait-and-see approach, suggesting that a meeting should first occur between the Ukrainian and Russian leaders themselves.
In Ukraine, a legislative initiative was registered that could change the administrative borders of Donetsk and Luhansk regions, potentially affecting peace settlement prospects. President Zelensky emphasizes ending the war and securing safety guarantees without conceding territory, while Russia continues to insist on participation in security guarantees and its own set of conditions.
Beyond the frontline, Russia is actively strengthening its military infrastructure near NATO borders, especially constructing a large antenna complex in Kaliningrad near the Alliance. All sides retain political and diplomatic tools to influence the situation, but there remain no concrete dates for meetings or agreements.
