Sep 25, 2026, 12:00 AM UTC

Cross-border attacks between Russia and Ukraine persisted overnight as diplomatic efforts intensified ahead of visits by U.S. envoys. Russian missile and drone strikes targeted multiple Ukrainian regions, including Zaporizhzhia and Kherson, leaving several civilians dead and numerous injured. Meanwhile, Ukrainian forces struck targets inside Russia, including an oil refinery and positions in Sochi and Belgorod.

The ongoing fighting coincides with statements from U.S. President Donald Trump claiming both sides agreed to stop targeting energy facilities. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy noted Kyiv will comply provided Western partners guarantee Russia halts strikes on Ukrainian power, infrastructure, and food supply routes. European Union officials also criticized a recent Russian strike near the Polish border as an attempt at intimidation.

Sources: Avaz, Beta, CDM, N1, Vijesti

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen declared that the bloc "will not tolerate attacks on EU soil" and remains "ready to respond," as European nations heighten security against hybrid threats.

German authorities identified two suspects connected to an explosive device at Leipzig Airport: a Russian national using Latvian documents and a Belarusian citizen with Russian papers. While the Belarusian suspect acquired a Schengen visa from Italy, Italian security officials stated he did not physically pass through the country.

Meanwhile, Danish intelligence warned of potential Russian sabotage targeting industrial facilities. On the battlefield, Russia launched targeted attacks on Ukraine's energy network, while Ukrainian drones struck Russian oil infrastructure.

Sources: Corriere della Sera, La Repubblica.

Military confrontations between the United States and Iran have escalated near the Strait of Hormuz following recent attacks. According to reports, US Central Command destroyed five Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps vessels after Iranian forces targeted American naval assets.

Tehran retaliated by launching 20 missiles toward US military positions in Jordan, while Iranian state media claimed strikes on six vessels, including three oil tankers and an American aircraft carrier. Emergency crews successfully extinguished a fire aboard one damaged tanker.

US President Donald Trump downplayed maritime disruptions, asserting that "Tehran is in severe difficulty" and maintaining that shipping lanes remain open. However, American intelligence agencies warned that Iranian forces feel emboldened and could further intensify regional hostilities.

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

U.S. President Donald Trump has warned of additional military action against Iran following the first direct exchange of fire between American and Iranian forces in a month. Trump stated that Tehran is urgently seeking a diplomatic resolution with Washington, claiming the Iranian government is asking for a deal. Explosions were reported near the strategic southern coastal cities of Bandar Abbas and Sirik during the bombardment.

In response, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian emphasized that Tehran is not seeking a broader conflict, but affirmed that the nation will "respond decisively" to any violation of its sovereignty. Meanwhile, Iranian state media reported that the country's naval forces remain operational and undamaged despite the strikes.

Sources: CDM (Cafe del Montenegro).

Former Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov has called on parliament to establish a legal framework for holding elections once martial law ends. Fedorov, who was removed from his cabinet post by President Volodymyr Zelensky in July, stressed that proactive planning is essential to maintain democratic standards after hostilities cease.

Under Ukrainian legislation, national elections are prohibited while martial law remains in effect. Authorities in Kyiv have repeatedly noted immense logistical challenges, such as organizing voting for frontline soldiers and millions of displaced citizens residing abroad or internally. Despite these obstacles, Fedorov's public statements highlight growing debate within Ukraine regarding its post-war political transition and democratic governance.

Sources: Le Monde