The morning began with reports of a drone attack on Kharkiv that killed five people. By midday, intelligence analysis showed Putin positioned for new conquests rather than negotiated settlement, while the "Coalition of the Determined" demanded clear answers from Russia regarding ceasefire proposals. France and Britain expressed readiness to lead this coalition.
Ukrainian forces successfully repelled a Russian assault in Donetsk, destroying 19 vehicles with drones and artillery. Meanwhile, Trump's administration canceled sanctions on a Russian oligarch's wife while maintaining tariffs on Ukraine that were imposed the previous day.
The evening brought devastation as a Russian ballistic missile struck Kryvyi Rih, Zelensky's hometown. The death toll climbed steadily from 12 to 18 throughout the evening, including 6-9 children, with over 50 wounded. Russia launched a second strike later in the evening. Zelensky confirmed discussions about potential international military contingents for land, air, sea, and air defense operations.