Ukrainian forces strike Russia, Russian troops advance in Zaporizhzhia, and international diplomacy seeks to ease tensions amid ongoing conflict.
On day 1,361 of Russia’s war on Ukraine, the conflict continues to claim lives and destabilize the region. The Ukrainian military reported a strike on Russia’s Ryazan oil refinery, located 200 km southeast of Moscow, causing multiple explosions and a large fire. Officials described the strike as part of efforts to limit Russia’s ability to launch missile and bomb attacks.
On the ground in Ukraine, Russian forces claimed control of the village of Yablukove in the Zaporizhzhia region, while Ukrainian troops confirmed withdrawing from Novovasylivske to regroup at more defensible positions.
The human cost of the conflict remains high. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed that Nataliia Khodemchuk, the widow of the first Chornobyl disaster victim, was among those killed in recent strikes on Kyiv, calling her death “a new tragedy caused once again by the Kremlin.”
Meanwhile, Russian media reported that conditions are stable at the Moscow-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant after precautionary measures temporarily switched off an external power line. Ukrainian forces also launched a drone strike on residential buildings in Volgograd, damaging facades and windows, while Russian defenses shot down eight Ukrainian drones over Belgorod, Bryansk, Kursk, and occupied Crimea.
Politics and Diplomacy
Efforts toward diplomacy continue amid the violence. Russia and Ukraine agreed to a prisoner exchange, involving roughly 1,200 Ukrainians, facilitated by Turkiye and the United Arab Emirates.
Domestically, President Zelenskyy announced plans to reform state-owned energy companies following a $100 million embezzlement scandal. In Poland, President Karol Nawrocki signed a bill providing social aid to Ukrainian refugees, noting it would be the “last time” until long-term solutions are found.
Meanwhile, the United States demanded changes to Russian ownership of Serbian oil firm NIS, giving Serbian officials until February 13 to comply before sanctions are reconsidered.
Military Aid
President Zelenskyy called for additional air defense resources, emphasizing the urgent need after recent Russian strikes on Kyiv, which killed at least seven and injured dozens. The attacks underscored the ongoing vulnerability of civilians and the need for continued international support.
As the Russia-Ukraine war drags on, global attention remains crucial. Readers are encouraged to follow updates, share the latest developments, and engage in discussions about this critical conflict.