Ukraine war latest: Zelensky formally nominates Khmara as defense minister, rules out Fedorov's comeback
Key developments on Aug. 18: * Zelensky formally taps Khmara as defense minister, ruling out Fedorov's return * Ukraine launches hundreds of drones towards Moscow in latest large-scale attack, reportedly damaging Wildberries warehouse * Russia threatens UK over supplying drones to Ukraine * Ghana asks Moscow to stop recruiting its citizens for war in Ukraine * SBU detains alleged Russian agent…
Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky formally appointed Yevhen Khmara as the new Defense Minister on Aug. 18, dismissing the possibility of former Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov making a return. The nominations, both requiring approval by parliament, come after nationwide protests following Fedorov's removal during a tumultuous government reshuffle.
Simultaneously, Ukraine intensified its offensive as it launched hundreds of drones toward Moscow, causing damage to a Wildberries warehouse, according to Russian media reports. Russian authorities claimed around 600 drones were launched towards the region, while Ukrainian forces reportedly shot down 197. Moscow Mayor Sergey Sobyanin reported at least 42 fires in various locations, including a distribution center for the SPAR supermarket chain and a chemical plant.
The Russian Embassy in the UK condemned the UK's provision of drones to Ukraine, stating that London should face the consequences of its actions. Meanwhile, Ghana urged Moscow to cease recruiting its citizens for the conflict in Ukraine, with 62 of its nationals already killed and 15 missing.
Written by urgent.news from Kyiv Independent's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
