Russo-Ukrainian war, day 1641: Russia strikes Kyiv by ballistic missiles ahead of Independence Day
Russian forces are now just 12 to 13 km from Sloviansk and Kramatorsk, with analysts warning the fortress-belt cities could see infiltration by late 2026.
Day 1641 of the Russo-Ukrainian war witnessed Russia launching ballistic missiles towards Kyiv, coinciding with the nation's Independence Day celebrations. This aggressive move came shortly after Ukrainian forces intercepted three Russian Kalibr ships on August 12, and another missile struck the capital on August 19. Prior to these attacks, Russia had eight warships capable of firing Kalibr cruise missiles, but it still maintains at least five.
The military situation in Ukraine remains dire, with evacuation procedures described as "force majeure" due to the lack of readiness and slow response times. Commander Chornovol highlighted the improvisational nature of casualty evacuation in most Ukrainian units, calling for dedicated evacuation teams and light-armored transport.
Ukrainian intelligence units, however, are not assisting Russia in its advance on cities like Sloviansk and Kramatorsk, which are now just 12 to 13 kilometers away. These cities could potentially fall victim to Russian forces by late 2026.
On a separate note, Ukrainian drones recently targeted a warehouse belonging to the Russian online retailer Ozon, disrupting their operations. The facility, located at Chapayevsk, was one of Russia's ten largest refineries. Although damage or interruptions to production have not been confirmed, the strike highlights the ongoing fuel shortages in Russia.
Amidst these military developments, Ukraine is also grappling with the humanitarian impact of the war. Russian forces have burned approximately 13 million Ukrainian books in just three months, nearly a third of everything printed in 2025. This destruction has prompted publishers to urge President Zelenskyy to convene the National Security Council.
Adding to the political landscape, Zelenskyy addressed the International Veterans Forum alongside the US envoy, emphasizing that Ukrainians will decide who their heroes are. The president also announced plans to create a national pantheon for those who have shaped Ukraine's identity.
Written by urgent.news from Euromaidan Press's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
