Sep 18, 2026, 12:00 PM UTC

Fresh details have emerged regarding reported diplomatic developments and ongoing fighting in Ukraine as US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner visit Kyiv and Moscow. Ukrainian military units reportedly received orders for a four-day operational pause, according to Ukrainian media sources. However, Russian and Ukrainian forces continued overnight attacks across several frontline regions.

US President Donald Trump stated that both nations agreed to cease strikes on energy infrastructure. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky clarified that Kyiv would comply only if Western allies ensure Moscow halts attacks on energy networks, logistics, and supply lines.

Meanwhile, European Union diplomacy chief Kaja Kallas and French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot condemned a Russian strike on a train near the Polish border, characterising it as an attempt to divide European nations. Separately, President Zelensky dismissed Ukraine's state prosecutor by decree.

Sources: Beta, CDM, Index, N1, Vijesti

Military engagements near the Strait of Hormuz have intensified following reciprocal strikes between United States and Iranian forces. According to United States Central Command, American forces destroyed five Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps vessels after an attempted strike on US naval ships. Tehran retaliated by launching 20 missiles targeting American military bases in Jordan. Iranian state media also claimed that its forces struck six vessels, including three oil tankers and an aircraft carrier.

Despite the escalation and a fire onboard an affected tanker being brought under control, US President Donald Trump stated that the maritime corridor remains operational, asserting that Iran faces severe logistical challenges. However, American intelligence agencies warned that Iranian commanders could pursue further conflict escalation.

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

Security concerns continue across Europe as Danish intelligence warned that Moscow may prepare sabotage operations targeting domestic industrial facilities. Meanwhile, Italian security officials clarified that a Belarusian suspect linked to explosives found at Leipzig airport did not travel through Italy, despite holding an Italian-issued Schengen visa. German investigators previously tied the suspect and a Russian national to the incident.

In the conflict zone, the Russian defense ministry announced a renewed campaign targeting Ukraine's energy network. In response, Ukrainian forces escalated long-range drone strikes on Russian refineries and petroleum infrastructure. The damage has compelled Moscow to import fuel to satisfy domestic consumption demands.

European Union leaders reiterated that hybrid attacks on member state territory will face firm responses.

Sources: Corriere della Sera, La Repubblica.

Following recent American military strikes on Bandar Abbas and Sirik, United States President Donald Trump warned of potential further actions if Tehran retaliates. Trump asserted that Iranian leadership is "begging" for a diplomatic agreement with Washington.

In response, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian clarified that Tehran does not seek a broader military conflict, though he vowed to "decisively respond to aggressors." Meanwhile, Iranian naval officials dismissed reports of severe operational damage, asserting that their maritime forces remain fully functional along the southern coast.

The exchange marks the first direct military confrontation between the two nations in a month, heightening regional security concerns as both sides balance military threats against potential diplomatic pathways.

Sources: CDM (Cafe del Montenegro).

The United States completed its largest crude oil transport operation through the Strait of Hormuz since hostilities began six months ago, using naval, aerial, and space assets. The movement coincided with an American strike on Iran's Larak Island. In response, Iranian forces deployed rocket-launched sea mines across the strategic passage.

Tehran reiterated that the waterway "will not be opened" until Washington complies with a memorandum demanding an end to port blockades, the removal of oil sanctions, unfreezing of assets, and termination of military actions. Prior to the conflict, approximately 20 million barrels of crude oil passed through the strait daily.

Sources: Expresso, Expresso das Ilhas, RTP (Rádio e Televisão de Portugal)