Sep 4, 2026, 09:30 PM UTC

A massive overnight Russian bombardment using ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones targeted Kyiv, Odesa, and Chernihiv, causing extensive civilian infrastructure damage. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported that the combined attacks aimed to inflict maximum destruction, leaving multiple casualties across affected regions. A strike on a major shopping centre in Kryvyi Rih resulted in at least 15 deaths and more than 130 injuries.

In response, Ukrainian forces conducted drone strikes against a Lukoil oil refinery inside Russian territory. EU diplomatic chief Kaja Kallas condemned Moscow's actions, stating they demonstrate "the depravity of Russia." Meanwhile, London and Paris granted authorization for Ukraine to produce Scalp cruise missiles domestically. Italy reiterated that it will not send troops or join upcoming multinational military maneuvers. Russian officials noted that negotiations regarding a potential prisoner exchange remain ongoing.

Sources: ANSA, Corriere della Sera, La Repubblica.

Military tensions between the United States and Iran have re-escalated following American airstrikes against missile launchers on Larak Island in the Strait of Hormuz. US Central Command confirmed the operation, marking the first American strikes on Iranian territory in a month, while Iranian media reported six naval personnel were killed.

Despite military actions, diplomatic discussions continue through regional mediators. Qatari officials stated that negotiations for a potential bilateral agreement remain ongoing. Additionally, Iranian diplomacy confirmed a preliminary arrangement with Oman on a new shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz, contingent on third-party non-interference.

However, prospects for a swift diplomatic resolution face complications after US President Donald Trump announced plans to demand financial compensation from Iran for deaths linked to past Iranian attacks.

Sources: Le Figaro, Le Monde, Le Soir, Libération, RTBF Info

France’s Constitutional Council has approved groundbreaking end-of-life legislation while rejecting a proposed general ban on social media for children under 15.

In its ruling, the high court affirmed that parliament acted within its constitutional authority regarding assisted dying, subject to three interpretation reserves. These include a conscience clause permitting private and religious healthcare facilities to opt out of performing end-of-life procedures. President Emmanuel Macron praised the decision, stating it completed an "exemplary democratic debate."

Simultaneously, the court struck down the key provision of a major presidential policy initiative aimed at prohibiting social media access for minors under 15, deeming a general ban a disproportionate restriction on personal freedoms. In the same decision, the constitutional judges upheld an emergency agricultural bill.

Sources: La Tribune, Le Figaro, Le Monde, Libération, Politico Europe (Defense)

Former Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov has called on parliament to draft legal provisions for future post-war elections while martial law remains active. Fedorov, who was removed from his ministerial position by President Volodymyr Zelensky in July, stated that preparing election rules in advance is vital for post-conflict political stability and maintaining democratic standards.

Ukrainian law currently forbids holding national elections during active martial law. President Zelensky has consistently dismissed calls for wartime voting, pointing to logistical hurdles and security threats across the country. Fedorov's public statements highlight growing political discussions in Kyiv over managing the transition to peacetime governance once hostilities conclude.

Sources: Le Monde

Russian President Vladimir Putin claimed during a press conference in Kyrgyzstan that Moscow's forces are accelerating their advance in eastern Ukraine, asserting, "I have no doubt that the enemy will collapse." Putin cited recent territorial gains in the Donetsk region, though these figures remain unverified.

In contrast, European defense analysts argue that Moscow faces shrinking strategic options. Experts suggest Putin is caught in an escalation spiral, raising concerns that Russia may increase pressure on European nations providing military support to Kyiv. Observers also note that achieving Western security goals inherently requires a Russian defeat.

Meanwhile, local authorities in Kherson have urged vulnerable residents to evacuate as intensified Russian bombardment threatens prolonged electricity and heating outages along the Dnipro River.

Sources: Aftenposten, Dagens Næringsliv, NRK, TV 2 Nyheter, VG.