Ukrainian forces reported downing 51 Russian drones overnight, with 30 more lost to tracking. Morning brought revelations about North Korean troop losses in Kursk region, continuing the pattern from previous days. The head of Ukraine's gambling regulator was detained on charges of aiding Russia.
Zelensky gave multiple interviews, emphasizing Ukraine's exclusive right to negotiate with Russia while acknowledging current limitations in retaking Crimea and Donbas. Reuters revealed EU plans for potential deployment of 100,000 peacekeeping troops in case of ceasefire. General Syrsky disclosed significant increases in Russian troop numbers over the past year.
Evening brought Zelensky to Brussels, while satellite imagery suggested Russian military preparations to withdraw from Syria. The World Bank issued its first tranche from Russian seized assets, marking a new phase in Western financial support mechanisms.