Sep 13, 2026, 03:00 PM UTC

Russian forces targeted five districts in Ukraine's Dnipropetrovsk region nearly 60 times over a 24-hour period, according to emergency responders. The attacks resulted in the deaths of at least five people and left 16 others injured.

The Kamianske district suffered three fatalities and five injuries, while strikes on Pavlohrad killed two individuals and wounded seven. Additional injuries were recorded in the Nikopol district as bombardment caused widespread damage. Emergency personnel operated throughout the region to suppress fires caused by the shelling, clear wreckage, and assist affected residents.

Sources: Ziarul de Gardă

Tensions near the Strait of Hormuz escalated after US Central Command destroyed five Iranian Revolutionary Guard vessels near Larak Island, claiming the action prevented mine-laying operations in the strategic waterway. Tehran dismissed the account, calling claims of mine-laying "pure fantasy" and denying any connection between the clashes and naval mines.

Iranian forces subsequently launched 20 missiles targeting American bases in Jordan. Iranian state media also claimed strikes against six maritime vessels, including three oil tankers and a US aircraft carrier. US President Donald Trump asserted that the strait remains open and that Iranian forces face severe operational difficulties. However, American intelligence agencies warned that the Revolutionary Guard feels emboldened and could further escalate the regional conflict.

Sources: ANSA, Corriere della Sera, Il Messaggero, La Repubblica.

US President Donald Trump reiterated that Washington has no immediate plans for diplomatic talks with Iran, insisting that Tehran must never acquire nuclear weapons. Trump warned of potential military action if Iranian or Omani forces interfere with US operations in the strategic Strait of Hormuz, following a recent missile strike on a commercial vessel in the area. In response, Iranian officials warned that their armed forces are prepared to transition to an offensive posture should diplomatic channels fail completely.

Concurrently, diplomatic progress in the Middle East remains stalled over Gaza. Hamas announced its agreement to the second phase of a US-sponsored peace proposal. However, Israeli leadership rejected immediate military withdrawal, maintaining that troops will remain in the Gaza Strip until Hamas completes a full disarmament.

Sources: CDM (Cafe del Montenegro)

Russian authorities are intensifying political restrictions and monitoring regional developments ahead of upcoming parliamentary elections. Domestic pressure has escalated following the banning of Yabloko, the country's last legal anti-war opposition party, alongside an 11-year prison sentence handed to politician Lev Schlossberg.

Public concern is simultaneously mounting over potential military mobilization after the September vote, prompting some citizens to sell assets and prepare to leave the country despite official denials. Observers link these anxieties to Russia's recurring late-summer political and economic instability, historically termed "Black August."

Beyond immediate electoral preparations, analysts highlight long-term governance uncertainty surrounding succession plans for 73-year-old President Vladimir Putin. Abroad, Moscow remains attentive to upcoming elections in Serbia, frequently warning against alleged Western-backed "color revolutions" to safeguard its influence in the Balkans.

Sources: Avaz, Danas, Klix, N1, Vijesti

Debate in the Serbian National Assembly over the 2026 budget rebalancing continued as lawmakers addressed a 59-item agenda. Governing coalition deputies defended the spending plan, asserting that increased state revenues will fund enhanced social assistance and key infrastructure projects from sustainable sources.

In contrast, opposition members criticized the proposal, alleging that expanded expenditure relies on borrowing to secure electoral support. Deputy Radomir Lazović of the Green-Left Front introduced an amendment seeking to redirect funds allocated for the National Stadium toward student welfare, flood prevention, and regional infrastructure.

Concurrently, Prime Minister Đuro Macut formally requested the dissolution of parliament following cabinet approval. President Aleksandar Vučić has 72 hours to execute the proposal and officially trigger snap parliamentary elections.

Sources: Tanjug, Danas, N1, Beta, Vijesti