Ukraine Strikes Back as Russia Vows Retaliation

Summary

Ukraine launched its biggest drone attack yet on Moscow, hitting oil refineries and exposing gaps in Russia’s defenses. Meanwhile, Russia promised massive retaliatory strikes after warning Kyiv’s moves could spark even fiercer responses. Tensions are heating up as both sides dig in.

Key Stories

Ukraine’s drones light up Moscow refineries in record attack — Ukrainian forces pulled off their largest drone strike on Moscow yet, setting oil refineries ablaze and rattling Russia’s air defenses. The attack marks a bold escalation as Kyiv takes the fight deeper into Russian territory.

Russia vows regular, massive strikes in retaliation — After Ukraine’s refinery hits, Russia’s foreign minister announced plans for routine, large-scale strikes on Ukrainian military sites and command centers. Moscow says it’s just following Putin’s orders—and won’t hold back.

US and Iran strike surprise deal, sparking regional shake-up — A sudden US-Iran memorandum of understanding calls for an immediate end to military operations, including in Lebanon. The deal caught allies off guard and could redraw Middle East alliances.

Zelensky warns Moscow will burn if war continues — Ukraine’s president issued a stark warning to Russians: if Putin doesn’t end the war, Kyiv will keep hitting back hard. His comments came as drones lit up Moscow’s skyline.

Russia’s military spending soars despite economic strain — Even as Ukraine chips away at its energy sector, Russia plans to boost military spending by 40%. The move comes as the country’s budget deficit widens, raising questions about long-term sustainability.