The day's dominant story was Ukraine's strike on the Russian naval base in Novorossiysk, with Zelensky confirming that Palianytsia drones and Neptune missiles hit the base, damaging ships and halting two grain terminals. This operation, described as one of the most successful attacks, overshadowed other developments. Earlier, Russia struck Zaporizhzhia, hitting a shopping center and causing power outages, and launched drone attacks on Kyiv, damaging a clinic and warehouses. Diplomatic friction emerged as reports indicated JD Vance asked Ukraine to avoid targeting tankers and oil routes. Meanwhile, Ukraine announced the liberation of 26 villages in the Oleksandrivske direction, a significant counteroffensive gain. The Kremlin's removal of the Yabloko party from elections also drew attention, but the Novorossiysk strike remained the focal point of editorial priorities.