Jun 26, 2026, 04:00 AM UTC

Russian forces attacked energy and civilian infrastructure in Odesa region's Vylkivska community on June 26, causing a fire and injuries. In Donetsk, Operational Command "East" confirmed Russian infiltration attempts in Kostiantynivka, though its commander denied the city was encircled, despite earlier reports to Громадське of over 100 penetrations. Kyiv also experienced evening explosions on June 25, with air defense active following a ballistic missile threat. Separately, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte reiterated plans for alliance members to significantly boost arms production, with new contracts expected at the July 5-7 summit, stating, "We know what you are doing, and we are better at it." Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps reportedly attacked a Singapore-flagged commercial vessel in the Strait of Hormuz on June 25, which UKMTO reported was struck by an "unknown" object near the Omani coast. Sources: Громадське, Українська правда

The Ukraine Recovery Conference in Gdańsk concluded with Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko announcing the signing of 160 agreements valued at over 10 billion euros. These agreements reportedly include a 3.2 billion euro first tranche from a new EU financial instrument and 3.4 billion dollars. Leading the Ukrainian delegation, Prime Minister Svyrydenko publicly expressed gratitude to Poland for its assistance following the Russian invasion, while reportedly refraining from addressing sensitive historical subjects during the event. Separately, the Vice Speaker of the Verkhovna Rada emphasized the importance of maintaining the Ukrainian-Polish partnership and dialogue, advocating for mutual respect free from "domination or threats." Sources: Радіо Свобода, Українська правда

Venezuela's provisional death toll from two powerful earthquakes on Wednesday, June 24, has risen to at least 235, according to Health Minister Carlos Alvarado on Thursday. This figure, announced after a new assessment, updates previous reports of 188 fatalities and over 1,500 injured, with 157 people still missing. The tremors, one measured at magnitude 7.2 by the United States Geological Survey, were described by residents as the most violent in 126 years, with one recalling, "the earth would never stop shaking." Widespread destruction is evident, and the final casualty count is expected to be higher. International assistance is mobilizing, including $150 million pledged by the United States, 85 rescuers dispatched by France, and a €100,000 contribution from the Pope.

Sources: Le Monde

Czech President Petr Pavel has reiterated his stance that he automatically leads the country's delegation to the NATO summit. Speaking on Czech television and radio on June 25, President Pavel emphasized the traditional role of the head of state in such international representations. His statement comes after the Constitutional Court issued an interim ruling, compelling the government to ensure President Pavel's inclusion in the delegation. This judicial intervention addresses an ongoing disagreement concerning the composition of the Czech Republic's representation at the summit, a matter that has also involved the Foreign Minister.

Sources: Радіо Свобода

The New York Rent Guidelines Board has voted to freeze rents for approximately one million apartments across New York City, with the new rates taking effect in October. This decision, made on Thursday, June 25, marks a notable political success for Mayor Zohran Mamdani. Mamdani, who campaigned on combating the rising cost of living, had made a rent freeze a key promise. The Rent Guidelines Board, composed of nine members appointed by the mayor, approved the measure, impacting a significant portion of the city's regulated housing stock. This action aims to provide financial relief to numerous residents amidst ongoing concerns about housing affordability.

Sources: Le Monde