Jun 25, 2026, 09:00 AM UTC

Russian forces continued attacks on June 25, launching an "Iskander-M" ballistic missile and 90 drones against Ukraine. Air defenses reportedly intercepted 83 drones, though hits were recorded from the missile and six drones. Russian strikes also targeted Ukrzaliznytsia locomotives three times in Zaporizhzhia and Sumy regions, killing a train driver's assistant. Concurrently, occupied Crimea experienced power outages and water supply issues amid drone attacks, leading to some train cancellations to Russia. Internationally, Denmark has begun delivering 15,000 long-range artillery shells to Ukraine, with some already arriving, following Kyiv's request for partners to prioritize such armaments. Separately, EU Ombudsman Teresa Ribeiro initiated an investigation into European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen for refusing access to a private group chat involving President Zelenskyy.

Sources: Громадське, Радіо Свобода, Українська правда

Global oil prices have declined to figures last observed prior to the recent conflict involving Iran. Brent crude, a key international benchmark, briefly dipped below $72.48 a barrel, a price point recorded just before the US and Israel initiated attacks on Iran on February 28. It subsequently recovered slightly to $72.63. This reduction in prices is attributed to the gradual resumption of shipping traffic through the critical Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global oil transport. The energy market has experienced significant volatility since Iran's response to the initial strikes. Sources: BBC News

Dr. Mahrang Baloch, a well-known activist from Pakistan's south-western province of Balochistan, is reportedly facing a potential life sentence. Her advocacy for victims of enforced disappearances began in her teenage years, following the alleged arrest and subsequent death of her own father at the hands of security forces. Baloch, a doctor by profession, emerged as a leading voice in a movement demanding accountability and answers regarding numerous disappearances across the province. The current legal proceedings against her represent a critical juncture in her ongoing campaign for human rights in the region.

Sources: BBC News

A recent study by the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) indicates a significant link between university degree subjects and potential lifetime earnings. The research suggests that graduates in certain fields, such as medicine, could earn substantially more over their careers compared to individuals without a degree. Specifically, medical graduates might see an earnings increase of up to £400,000 over their working life. Economics graduates are also noted to achieve considerably higher incomes. The findings encourage young people to carefully consider their chosen field of study, as the financial returns vary significantly across different academic disciplines.

Sources: BBC News