UPDATE: A drone attack launched by Ukraine has reportedly set fire to a nuclear power plant in Russia’s Kursk region, according to Russian officials. This incident coincided with Ukraine’s celebration of its 34th Independence Day and has raised urgent concerns about nuclear safety.
The fire at the nuclear facility was quickly extinguished, with no injuries reported, the plant’s press service stated. Despite damage to a transformer, radiation levels remain within normal ranges. The United Nations’ nuclear watchdog has acknowledged media reports of the fire caused by military activity, but has not confirmed the details independently. Director-General Rafael Mariano Grossi emphasized, “every nuclear facility must be protected at all times.”
Ukraine has not yet commented on the alleged attack. Meanwhile, Russian officials reported that approximately 10 Ukrainian drones were shot down, with debris igniting a separate fire at the port of Ust-Luga, a major fuel export terminal in the Leningrad region. Russian Defense Ministry claimed to have intercepted 95 Ukrainian drones overnight into Sunday, while Ukraine’s air force confirmed that it shot down or jammed 48 drones out of 72 launched into Ukrainian territory.
As these developments unfold, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy delivered a powerful message from Kyiv’s Independence Square, asserting Ukraine’s determination to build a secure future. “We are building a Ukraine that will have enough strength and power to live in security and peace,” he stated, calling for a just peace as the global community watches closely.
In a show of international support, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney arrived in Kyiv on Sunday, announcing a substantial military assistance package valued at 2 billion Canadian dollars (approximately $1.5 billion USD). “On this special day, it is especially important for us to feel the support of our friends,” Yermak, Zelenskiy’s chief of staff, noted. Discussions also included the potential deployment of Canadian forces as part of a reassurance mission in Ukraine.
Norway has also pledged significant military aid, committing around 7 billion kroner (approximately $650 million USD) for air defense systems, marking a growing coalition of support for Ukraine’s defense efforts. Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store highlighted the collaborative funding of two Patriot systems with Germany.
On a spiritual note, Pope Leo XIV prayed for peace in Ukraine, sending a heartfelt message during his weekly blessing. His telegram to Zelenskiy shared sentiments of solidarity from the global community.
In a notable development, Russia’s Defense Ministry reported the return of 146 Russian servicemen from Ukraine, exchanged for an equal number of Ukrainian soldiers, signaling ongoing tensions amidst diplomatic efforts.
As the situation continues to evolve, the international community remains on high alert for further developments. The implications of these military actions, especially concerning nuclear safety, underscore the urgency of a peaceful resolution in the region. Stay tuned for the latest updates as this story unfolds.
