Russian strikes devastate Kyiv energy grid as US Senate passes sanctions

Russian missile bombardments across Kyiv and surrounding districts have killed at least 15 people and severely damaged Ukraine's energy network. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned that the country has "almost no thermal power plant intact" heading into the winter months.

In Washington, the U.S. Senate overwhelmingly passed a new sanctions package targeting Moscow's hydrocarbon industry. The legislation now awaits a vote in the House of Representatives in September. Ukrainian forces have also expanded long-range drone strikes targeting infrastructure inside Russian territory.

Separately, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that direct talks between American and Iranian representatives are actively taking place regarding regional Middle East conflicts.

Sources: La Tribune, Le Figaro, Le Monde, Le Soir, RTBF Info.