On October 4, Ukrainian forces confirmed successful strikes on important targets in Russia, including an oil refinery in Leningrad oblast attacked in cooperation with the Russian rebel group "Black Spark." Key units were damaged and the facility caught fire for the third time this year. In Kursk oblast, a radar complex and equipment, as well as the enemy’s 8th Army command post in occupied Donetsk, were hit. A modern Russian missile ship "Grad" was also struck in a lake in Karelia.
In Belgorod oblast, there were reports of explosions and damage to civilian infrastructure. Meanwhile, in Shostka, Sumy region, Russian forces launched a powerful strike at the railway station, resulting in one civilian death, dozens injured, and leaving the city without gas, electricity, or water.
A Russian drone also attacked a fishing boat in the area, causing one death and one injury. Ukrainian society is urged to support the armed forces; fundraising for protective military equipment continues.
Ukraine accuses China of providing Russia with satellite imagery to conduct strikes on Ukrainian sites. Intelligence representative Oleh Aleksandrov claims close cooperation between the two countries. An official Chinese response is expected.
French authorities released a Russian tanker after a brief detention, with the incident seen as mainly a PR action. New measures to curb Russia’s shadow fleet may be in preparation.
Ukrainian forces are aiding in shooting down drones in European airspace—Ukraine’s General Staff reported the destruction of several drones over Denmark.
Escalation continues in the Middle East: Israel launched new strikes on Gaza, resulting in more casualties. Donald Trump aims for a Nobel Peace Prize but has yet to end the conflict.
Russia’s oil and gas revenues dropped by about a quarter in September year-over-year, according to its Ministry of Finance. Falling energy prices and a stronger ruble have squeezed the state budget.
A KMIS survey shows 71% of Ukrainians believe corruption has increased during wartime. In Tbilisi, mass protests, including the storming of the presidential residence, continue amid local elections.
The author urges support for Ukrainian military fundraising efforts.
