September 18 brought a series of significant developments in Ukraine and worldwide. Overnight, Russian forces attacked railway infrastructure in Poltava region, causing fires and injuring one person. Train delays were reported, but service was restored by morning. The Kyiv region was also hit: fires broke out in Boryspil and Bucha districts, but there were no casualties.
According to the military, out of 75 drones launched at Ukraine, 48 were shot down. Meanwhile, a Ukrainian drone conducted a long-range strike over 1,500 km, hitting a petrochemical facility in Bashkortostan, Russia, underscoring Ukraine's growing technological capabilities.
On September 18, Polish Defense Minister and Deputy PM Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz visited Kyiv with a military delegation, announcing expanded cooperation in drone operations. However, the Polish Senate voted to keep the 800-zloty aid only for Ukrainian workers.
Internationally, Donald Trump visited the UK with the First Lady. His visit sparked protests in London, incidents with royal protocol, and debates over his political stance. Trump continues his support for Israel and takes a tough line on sanctions against Russia and China. Meanwhile, the EU suspended some funding to Israel due to the Gaza conflict, maintaining support only for humanitarian projects.
In Ukraine, debate continues over the possibility of holding all types of elections (presidential, parliamentary, local) even during wartime. The parliament appealed to the President to award Hero of Ukraine status to former speaker Andriy Parubiy, who was killed in Lviv at the end of August.
Russia’s economy faces new challenges as the prolonged war leads the government to consider raising the value-added tax, with budget revenues falling short of needs.
In summary, the day was marked by major political, military, and economic developments, reflecting Ukraine’s resilience and emerging trends in global geopolitics.
