Jul 2, 2026, 04:00 PM UTC

The death toll from Russia's extensive missile and drone attack on Kyiv on July 2 has increased to 21, with 85 individuals, including two children, sustaining injuries. The assault involved 74 missiles and 496 uncrewed aerial vehicles, causing widespread damage across the capital. Separately, a guided aerial bomb strike in the Dnipropetrovsk region resulted in the death of a 7-year-old girl and injuries to four others, including an 11-year-old. Amidst these events, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reiterated his hope for a visit from US special representatives to Ukraine, following Defense Minister Rustem Umerov's discussions with former President Trump's son-in-law. The European Union reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying sanctions against Moscow and providing ongoing military assistance, particularly air defense systems and drones. European diplomacy chief Kaja Kallas stated, "Only sustained military support for Ukraine and increased pressure on Moscow can do that." Sources: Радіо Свобода, Українська правда

A recent Russian attack on Kyiv on July 2 resulted in over ten fatalities and damage to more than twenty residential buildings. Commercial properties, including the ERC complex, Porsche Center Kyiv Airport, CityHotel Residence, and an Agromat store, also sustained damage. Concurrently, the European Union Court of Justice has upheld a €4.1 billion fine against Google for abusing its dominant position with the Android operating system. Ukraine is requesting €6.6 billion in military assistance from the European Peace Facility, aiming to capitalize on a perceived "window of opportunity" on the front lines. Kyiv has also implemented a controlled export system for its defense technologies to partner nations. Sources: Forbes Ukraine

Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso have formally notified the United Nations Secretary-General of their withdrawal from the International Criminal Court (ICC) on June 24. The three West African nations, all led by military governments, justified their decision by stating that the ICC has become a "selective and politicized instrument" that has diverged from its original principles. This collective action follows earlier announcements of their intent to leave the court.

Separately, the UN Human Rights Office announced on July 2 that its bureau in Burkina Faso would close by November 30, three months after its suspension by the country's military authorities. The UN expressed regret over the decision.

Sources: Le Monde

The Vatican has excommunicated over half a million followers of the Society of Saint Pius X (SSPX), a conservative Catholic splinter sect. This disciplinary action, which includes the sect's six bishops, follows the SSPX's recent consecration of four new bishops in Geneva. The consecrations proceeded despite direct instructions from Pope Leo XIV forbidding the act. The SSPX is named after Pope Pius X, who was known for his resistance to modernization within the Church. This move represents a significant measure against the traditionalist group.

Sources: BBC News