On August 24, Ukraine celebrates its 34th Independence Day. On this significant date, the country received congratulations from many world leaders, including Donald Trump, Alexander Lukashenko, Canada's Prime Minister Mark Carney, and US special envoy Keith Kellogg. Multiple new military assistance packages were announced, demonstrating continued support for Ukraine amid its confrontation with Russia.
The Russian Defence Ministry reported Ukrainian drone attacks in various Russian regions, including Leningrad Oblast, Moscow and St Petersburg, leading to temporary disruptions in airport operations. Energy facilities, including a gas processing plant in Leningrad Oblast, were also targeted. According to Ukraine’s Security Service, the strike hit a key cryogenic unit.
The Ukrainian Armed Forces reported regaining control of the village Zelenyi Hai in Donetsk region and some successes in Sumy region. In response, Russia launched drone attacks on Ukrainian cities; Ukrainian air defence forces shot down many drones, but some hit their targets.
World leaders such as Donald Trump and Marco Rubio, as well as European heads of state, reaffirmed support for Ukraine’s independence, highlighting both ongoing diplomatic initiatives and military aid. The US and Canada announced new shipments of advanced missiles and armored vehicles. Europe is financing further air defence systems for Ukraine.
Meanwhile, trade tensions between the US and China continue. Beijing imposed tariffs in response to US duties, significantly affecting trade volumes. These global economic shifts impact military and political processes related to Ukraine, particularly in light of Vladimir Putin’s expected visit to Beijing in early September.
Ukrainian leadership calls on partners to maintain active support, emphasizing the need for continued pressure on Russia to bring about peace.
