The EU Will Participate in Restoring Ukraine’s Energy Sector and Upgrading Its Protection – Address by the President

25 February 2026 – 20:11

I wish you good health, fellow Ukrainians!

It’s been an active day. The Prime Minister of Norway visited Ukraine. Thank you, Jonas! Norway provides a lot of support and is one of our largest partners. Air defense for Ukraine, contributions to the PURL initiative enabling us to purchase American missiles for the Patriots, military aid packages, and energy support. Norway helped us get through this winter. Overall, we’ve reached the highest level of relations with all the countries of Northern Europe. It’s one of the most productive formats – NB8: the Nordic countries plus the Baltic States.

Just yesterday, we held a corresponding summit here in Kyiv. Leaders came to Ukraine to support us, and new aid packages have been announced right now. Sweden provides a military assistance package worth USD 1.5 billion. Norway adds almost USD 1.2 billion for our joint drone production. And we already effectively have strategic relations with Norway, and we agreed to formalize this through a corresponding agreement. Denmark is providing a support package for the energy and humanitarian sectors, which will support people and life in communities right now. Additional decisions on support have been made by Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia. And altogether, the NB8 countries – the Nordics and the Baltics – will allocate over EUR 12 billion to support Ukraine this year, including around EUR 1 billion for energy support. This is extremely important for us – for Ukraine. Every decision, every meeting, and our summits strengthen Ukraine’s confidence and increase our ability to protect lives.

I also want to once again highlight our joint work with the European Union. Yesterday, we discussed important issues with Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, and António Costa, President of the European Council. First, the EU will participate in restoring Ukraine’s energy sector and upgrading its protection. We discussed this in detail, and the government officials are already preparing a corresponding strategy for reconstruction and protection for the next winter. The task is to present the details by March 1, and the strategy will be approved at the national level, so that every community and every region clearly understands the priorities. Ursula will help us implement this. Thank you!

We also had substantive discussions on the new EU sanctions package – the 20th package. We expect the sanctions pressure on Russia over this war to continue and to remain effective. I thank the United Kingdom for the new sanctions – the largest since 2022. Australia has also presented a new sanctions package, along with New Zealand and Canada. Canada has also provided a support package. There are new support decisions from Croatia as well.

All of this – in these very days, right now – clearly demonstrates that our partners stand with us, with Ukraine. In March, we will continue active diplomatic efforts – a lot is already planned. We will continue to strengthen Ukraine. And this day is not over yet – there will be further negotiations.

And one more thing.

I received reports from the Security Service of Ukraine: I tasked Yevhenii Khmara and Oleksandr Poklad with working to cleanse the Service of those whose interests are not aligned with Ukraine at all. Results have already been achieved. Today, corresponding detentions took place, and it is very important that fair verdicts follow. Everyone in public office must work for Ukraine and for the sake of Ukraine. There will be no other option.

Glory to Ukraine!

President Zelenskyy also held a joint press conference with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.

We Will Work Toward a Strategic Partnership Between Our Countries – President of Ukraine Following a Meeting with the Prime Minister of Norway

25 February 2026 – 15:20

Ukraine and Norway will work toward a strategic partnership. President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced this following a meeting with Prime Minister of Norway Jonas Gahr Støre.

The Head of State thanked Norway for all its support and particularly highlighted energy assistance. Such cooperation helps Ukraine get through every winter that Russia tries to turn into a weapon. Norway is also one of the largest investors in the PURL initiative: total contributions have already reached $970 million.

“We also greatly appreciate every military package provided by the Norwegians. The long-term nature and predictability of Norway’s support, your annual financial support packages, greatly help with defense planning in this terrible war and all our actions,” the President said.

During the meeting, Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Jonas Gahr Støre discussed continuing joint work and moving toward a strategic partnership. They also discussed future joint energy projects that could strengthen both countries. The energy ministers will remain in contact and prepare a relevant agreement on energy cooperation.

“I would also like to highlight our cooperation in weapons production. We greatly value that Norway provided Ukraine with NASAMS – I repeat this every time. We are very grateful for this. We expect our relations to reach a level that will allow us to jointly produce weapons,” the Head of State noted.

The President briefed on the situation at the front and air defense needs. The leaders also discussed diplomatic efforts. Volodymyr Zelenskyy noted that preparations for new trilateral-format meetings are ongoing, and Ukraine will coordinate substantively with Europe.

The Head of State also thanked Norway for supporting sanctions efforts and highlighted the NB8 format (the Nordic and Baltic countries), which has become one of the most effective platforms for coordination and joint work.

The Prime Minister of Norway assured his country will continue to support Ukraine, including in drone production. According to him, total assistance for 2026 will amount to about $8 billion.

“We support your efforts, the efforts of your diplomats, to reach an agreement that you will be able to defend as a democratic state, and you can count on us standing with you,” Jonas Gahr Støre said.

First Lady Zelenska delivered a video address to the participants of the international conference “Bring Kids Back UA: Bringing Ukrainian Children Home.”

Olena Zelenska Called on the World to Help Rescue and Return Children Abducted by Russia at the International Conference “Bring Kids Back UA: Bringing Ukrainian Children Home”

25 February 2026 – 20:42

The First Lady of Ukraine, Olena Zelenska, delivered a video address to the participants of the international conference “Bring Kids Back UA: Bringing Ukrainian Children Home,” held in Portugal.

“A lost child is probably every mother’s nightmare. Not knowing whether your child is safe – that uncertainty is terrifying. It is also the fear of nearly every child: to be lost, not knowing when you will see your mother or someone close to you again, not having by your side people you trust. For nearly 20,000 young Ukrainians abducted by Russia, being taken from their homeland is not simply a change of residence. For them, it is almost always isolation, pressure, and systematic attempts to reshape their identity and worldview,” the First Lady emphasized.

The President’s wife spoke about the removal of entire orphanages and children without parental care by Russian forces, about children being taken from their families in temporarily occupied territories, about forced placement in militarized camps in Russia, and about the alteration of children’s personal data, making it impossible to trace them in electronic systems.

“It is horrifying when our children are traded. And that is exactly what the Russians are doing – sorting them for adoption. Russian officials simply arrive at shelters and choose those they like best, as if selecting live merchandise. And the abductors are preparing no less terrifying things for older boys once they reach adulthood. They are conscripted into the Russian army and forced to fight against their own homeland,” Olena Zelenska said.

During a separate panel, children who were returned home thanks to the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children and the Ukrainian President’s Bring Kids Back UA initiative shared their experiences. The conversation was moderated by Advisor – Commissioner of the President for Children’s Rights and Child Rehabilitation, Daria Herasymchuk.

“I am grateful to every partner helping us bring the children home. These are individuals, organizations, and entire countries. Thanks to our joint efforts, 2,000 children are already back home. But the majority remain in Russia. I truly hope that today’s meeting is another step toward their rescue and return,” the President’s wife concluded.

Georgia:

OTD in 1921 the Red Army completed its occupation of Georgia after invading a few weeks before. We had signed a treaty less than a year earlier saying we would never invade.

Over a century later, we maintain the tradition of using a peace treaty as a sign that we will invade.

— Darth Putin (@darthputinkgb.bsky.social) February 25, 2026 at 2:52 AM

Georgians are marching today to mark the day of the Soviet occupation of Georgia in 1921, when the Red Army invaded and ended the country’s short-lived independence.

20% of Georgia is still occupied by Russia.

Day 455 of daily, uninterrupted, nationwide protests in Georgia. 🇬🇪

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— Rusudan Djakeli (@rusudandjakeli.bsky.social) February 25, 2026 at 11:40 AM

Loved my friend and colleague Anna Chikovani’s photo from today’s protest commemorating 105 years since the Soviet Russian occupation of Georgia.

Her expression is so firm, determined, concerned and calm at the same time.

Day 455 of #GeorgiaProtests

📷 MOSE

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— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) February 25, 2026 at 2:44 PM

The Georgian national anthem echoes in front of Parliament.

Day 455 of daily, uninterrupted protests.

105 years ago today, Soviet Russia invaded and occupied Georgia.

Today, 20% of the country remains under Russian occupation. The rest is ruled by a Russia-aligned, illegitimate regime.

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— Rusudan Djakeli (@rusudandjakeli.bsky.social) February 25, 2026 at 12:18 PM

Today’s the Soviet Occupation Day in Georgia.

Which is completely brushed under the rug by the Georgian Dream, of course.

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— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) February 25, 2026 at 9:52 AM

The UN:

Russia’s representative to the United Nations, Nebenzya, tried to argue that Russians and Ukrainians are one people and that his lineage traces back to the Zaporizhzhian Cossacks. He even claimed that his parents were “more genuinely Ukrainian” than Ukraine’s representatives at the UN.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 25, 2026 at 9:45 AM

Deputy Foreign Minister of Ukraine, Mariana Betsa, firmly put the Russian representative in his place.

— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 25, 2026 at 9:45 AM

The EU:

Plans to deploy peacekeeping troops on the ground in Ukraine will require Vladimir Putin’s approval, allies have conceded. – The Telegraph

If this is true… wow. Coalition of the spineless.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 25, 2026 at 9:26 AM

Then there will be no peacekeepers in Ukraine.

Also, I’m not sure the EU and its member states really grasp the reality they exist in and have what it takes to survive that reality.

Poland:

Camp Jomsborg was established in 2025 as part of Operation “Legion,” a multinational operation led by Norway to train, equip, and finance the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

m.youtube.com/watch?v=XtD9…

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 25, 2026 at 12:33 PM

At this camp in southeastern Poland, Ukrainian forces are trained to fight and survive on the battlefield under the guidance of NATO allies.

— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 25, 2026 at 12:33 PM

Britain:

The Ambassador of Ukraine to the United Kingdom announced that the first Ukrainian defense plant has begun operating in the UK. It is a production facility of the company Ukrspecsystems, which specializes in the manufacturing of drones.
www.facebook.com/vzaluzhnyi/p…

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 25, 2026 at 12:18 PM

The US:

This! 👇💯

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 25, 2026 at 2:48 PM

Trump does not understand what Putin truly wants: his strategy is built on the illusion that the Kremlin would settle for territorial concessions and Ukraine’s neutrality. In reality Putin seeks full control over Ukraine, its political life, future, and choices.

— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 25, 2026 at 2:52 PM

Vance on Ukraine: “I’m sure that Vladimir Putin has his military objectives and obviously he hasn’t stopped the killing, even though the president wants that very much to happen, but the way to solve this is to continue to engage in diplomacy.”

The way to stop the killing was.. to stop the killing.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 25, 2026 at 11:56 AM

Ukraine agreed to an unconditional ceasefire you proposed almost a year ago, but russia did not. And you simply went with their refusal without any pressure.

Your version of ‘diplomacy’ is pressuring Ukraine while allowing russia to continue the killings.

— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 25, 2026 at 11:56 AM

Trump is an ignoramus who has no idea what the actual causes of the war are, why Putin began his genocidal re-invasion, nor what Putin really wants to achieve with his genocidal re-invasion of Ukraine.

I’d like the war to end tomorrow. Unfortunately, wanting isn’t enough. Trump has the instruments to end it.

Push the russian economy over the edge by tightening sanctions and seizing the shadow fleet, arm Ukraine, and provide strong security guarantees.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 25, 2026 at 5:53 PM

There is no way, even if everything were to go right at the negotiating table, which is impossible because Trump, Witkoff, and Jared have rigged it for Putin, that the war could end in a month.

Back to Ukraine:

Browder: Putin is not going to seek an endgame for one reason: he needs a war, a foreign enemy, so that people don’t get mad at him inside Russia.

This war is now only about Putin’s personal survival. He needs the war to stay in power, and he needs to stay in power to survive.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 25, 2026 at 10:56 AM

I published a new Missile Matters post earlier today, discussing Ukraine’s recent deep strike against the Votkinsk missile plant and its implications for the missile supply chain.

You can access the post here:
missilematters.substack.com/p/flamingo-f…

Short summary below

1/7

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— Fabian Hoffmann (@frhoffmann.bsky.social) February 25, 2026 at 12:33 PM

From Missile Matters:

On the night of 20 to 21 February, Ukraine launched several FP-5 Flamingo land-attack cruise missiles into Russia. At least one missile is confirmed to have struck the Votkinsk missile plant, a state-owned defense enterprise and one of Russia’s most important missile factories, located roughly 1,400 kilometers inside Russia from Ukraine and about 300 kilometers east of Kazan.

Ukraine has targeted Russia’s missile and long-range drone industry before, notably the Yelabuga drone production facility, using long-range drones, which appear to have caused only limited damage, however, due to the relatively low warhead yield of the systems employed. Ukraine has achieved greater success targeting parts of the missile and drone supply chain, particularly chemical precursor materials used to produce explosives and solid fuels.

The attack on Friday night marks the first time that Ukraine has successfully struck a core target of Russia’s missile industry directly using a heavy missile capability. Satellite imagery suggests the strike caused major damage to at least one building, although the precise extent of the destruction cannot be verified at this stage.

This post discusses the implications of the attack, what it means for the Flamingo missile, and explores the potential for future Ukrainian counter-industry operations using deep strike weapons.

Votkinsk missile plant

The Votkinsk Machine Building Plant primarily serves as a final assembly and component-manufacturing site for solid-fuel ballistic missiles. Production covers strategic intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs), and theater ballistic missile systems, as well as major subcomponents such as rocket motors and airframes.

In the strategic missile domain, the facility is the main producer of the RS-24 Yars ICBM and the RSM-56 Bulava SLBM. The site is also likely a primary production facility for the Oreshnik intermediate-range ballistic missile.

For theater-range ballistic missiles, the facility is the principal production site for 9M723 short-range ballistic missiles used by the Iskander-M system. Some reporting also links the plant to the Kh-47M2 Kinzhal, where it is likely involved at the component manufacturing level.

Russian missile supply chain disruption

The Votkinsk facility is an industrial campus comprising dozens of production buildings and laboratories. Open-source reporting indicates that Workshop 19 was struck during the attack, creating a hole of roughly 30 by 24 meters in the roof. The building reportedly houses a galvanizing and metal-forming shop that performs electroplating, stamping, and surface treatment of structural components prior to final assembly. Its role lies upstream in the production chain, preparing airframe sections, fasteners, and possibly electronic housings used across several missile programs.

Even limited damage could therefore slow multiple assembly lines at once if relevant components become unavailable for an extended period. The short-term impact, however, depends on existing stockpiles or the availability of alternative subcontractors. Given that Russian missile plants appear to operate continuously in three shifts (indicated also by the reported casualties during the night attack), it is plausible that substantial inventories of upstream components exist within the supply chain.

The medium- to long-term impact will depend on how quickly equipment that could have been destroyed can be replaced, including chemical bath systems, wastewater treatment and filtration units, stamping presses, CNC machines, and industrial ventilation infrastructure, among others, as well as how rapidly production lines can be recertified. Russia may be able to replace some equipment domestically, but for certain critical systems, it remains dependent on foreign suppliers, with China likely serving as the primary fallback.

Flamingo lethality

The extent of damage depends on how much machinery was ultimately affected. The Flamingo cruise missile is known to be equipped with a 1,150-kilogram payload, likely carrying TNT equivalent explosives on the order of roughly 600 kilograms.

Assuming that 10 pounds per square inch (psi) of overpressure is required to mechanically destroy equipment in the workshop, the warhead would have a lethal radius of about 30 meters. If 5 psi is considered sufficient to render equipment nonfunctional, the lethal radius could extend to around 35 meters. Lighter damage to machinery may have occurred at distances of up to 55 meters, while beyond that, blast effects are likely negligible, at least for heavier equipment. Given that the building spans roughly 130 meters in length and 55 meters in width, and depending on how the machinery is distributed inside, blast damage is likely to have been localized rather than affecting equipment throughout the entire structure.

Critically, video footage from the night of the attack shows large smoke plumes rising from the building, supporting unconfirmed reports that a fire broke out in the workshop after the strike. Traces of fire damage are also visible in satellite imagery taken afterward. If a fire did occur, and depending on how long it burned, large sections or even the entire building may have been lost.

Given the substantial fuel capacity of the Flamingo, which, according to the manufacturer, enables a range of up to 3,000 kilometers, and considering that the plant lies only about half that distance from potential launch areas, it is possible that significant unburned fuel was dispersed and ignited upon impact, increasing the likelihood of a fire.

Much more at the link.

So, Denys “Redis” Prokopenko, commander of the 1st Army Corps “Azov” and a distinguished hero of the Battle of Mariupol, was promoted to the rank of brigadier general today.

He is only 34 years old.

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— Illia Ponomarenko (@ioponomarenko.bsky.social) February 25, 2026 at 2:40 PM

I reckon he’s now the youngest Ukrainian general and one of the world’s youngest top-ranking military officers (please correct me if I’m wrong).

— Illia Ponomarenko (@ioponomarenko.bsky.social) February 25, 2026 at 2:40 PM

This is correct. The youngest someone would make brigadier general or rear admiral lower half in the US military, or any military, would be around 50 at the earliest. And that would be if they were hard chargers who hit every promotion below the zone (ahead of the normal promotion window for their year group cohort).

Episodes of ground drones engaging directly in firefights with infantry are becoming increasingly frequent. In this instance, an unmanned ground vehicle armed with a machine gun eliminates two Russian infantrymen with gunfire. Footage by the 32nd Mechanized Brigade.

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— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) February 25, 2026 at 11:12 AM

“1,700 citizens from 36 African countries are fighting in the Russian army against Ukraine.” – Andrii Sybiha, head of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine.

Russia is actively recruiting residents of African countries to take part in the war, using various recruitment schemes.

— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 25, 2026 at 8:37 AM

Kharkiv:

Explosion in Kharkiv ‼️ our city is under russian missile attack right now ‼️

— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 25, 2026 at 8:56 PM

More explosions in Kharkiv ‼️
Russia still sucks.

— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 25, 2026 at 9:57 PM

❗️For the first time, russia deployed a fiber-optic FPV drone in an attack on Kharkiv.

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— Iryna Voichuk (@irynavoichuk.bsky.social) February 25, 2026 at 3:28 PM

Zaporizhzhia:

An apartment building is on fire in Zaporizhzhia after russian attack ‼️

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 25, 2026 at 10:01 PM

Epicenter mall is on fire in Zaporizhzhia after russian attack ‼️

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 25, 2026 at 9:34 PM

Zaporizhzhia Oblast:

In Zaporizhzhia region four were killed, abd a got child injured in russian airstrikes

On the evening of February 24, around 10 p.m., russian forces carried out airstrikes on a village in the Zaporizhzhia district

At one address, a residential house was destroyed.Rescuers recovered the bodies of 3

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 25, 2026 at 7:57 AM

people from the rubble.

At another location, a two‑story residential building was damaged. Emergency crews pulled one more body from the debris, and a child was injured.

— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 25, 2026 at 7:57 AM

Stepnohirsk, Zaporizhzhia Oblast:

The special unit “Artan” of the Main Directorate of Intelligence of Ukraine carried out a successful offensive near Stepnohirsk on the Zaporizhzhia axis.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 25, 2026 at 10:18 AM

A key part of the special operation was cutting off critical Russian logistical arteries, preventing further assault operations in this direction.
t.me/c/2076048905…

— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 25, 2026 at 10:18 AM

Sumy Oblast:

Today, russia once again killed a rescuer‼️

In the Sumy region, within the Velyka Pysarivka community, an enemy FPV drone struck a car, killing Pavlo Kolisnyk — a firefighter‑rescuer.

He was returning home from shift when the russian drone hit his vehicle.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 25, 2026 at 8:03 AM

Pavlo was on his way back after service to which he had devoted nearly his entire life, beginning in 1997.

— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 25, 2026 at 8:03 AM

Kyiv:

Echoes of distant explosions in Kyiv: The Ukrainian capital just came under attack by 3 Russian ballistic missiles, and about a dozen attack drones are incoming. 5 Russian strategic bombers are now airborne, and cruise missiles (if launched) are expected in 🇺🇦 airspace at 0600.

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— Euan MacDonald (@euanmacdonald.bsky.social) February 25, 2026 at 9:06 PM

Lots more distant explosions audible here in western Kyiv – reports of more ballistic launches at Ukrainian capital. Possible shoot-downs. Shahed attack drones still incoming.

— Euan MacDonald (@euanmacdonald.bsky.social) February 25, 2026 at 9:14 PM

Earlier there were reports of 2 Russian Zircon anti-ship missiles passing over Mykolaiv, Kirovohrad, and Cherkasy regions in the direction of Kyiv – I might have heard them being shot down in the distance.

— Euan MacDonald (@euanmacdonald.bsky.social) February 25, 2026 at 9:21 PM

Russian occupied Crimea:

💥On the night of February 25, 2026, the Special Operations Forces struck with FP-1/FP-2 guided strike drones Russian air defense positions in Crimea.

As a result: S-400 launcher, a 92N6E radar station of the S-400, additional supporting components of the S-400 and a Pantsir-S1 were eliminated.

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— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) February 25, 2026 at 5:15 AM

Kostiantynivka, Donetsk Oblast:

Russian forces struck a dam with a FAB-3000 aerial bomb near Kostiantynivka in the Donetsk region. The aim of the attack is to disrupt logistics, and such devastating strikes could also lead to flooding.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 25, 2026 at 12:46 PM

Russia:

Putin is making Russia small again:

”Our model suggests that Russian casualties are now between 1.1m and 1.4m, of whom 230,000-430,000 are dead. That would mean one in 25 Russian men between the ages of 18 and 49 may have been killed or severely wounded since the start of the full-scale war.”

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— Minna Ålander 🌻 (@alanderminna.bsky.social) February 25, 2026 at 11:23 AM

The Udmurt Republic, Russia:

Footage of a Ukrainian “Flamingo” strike on the Iskander plant in Votkinsk, Russia.🦩🔥

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 25, 2026 at 8:09 AM

Smolensk Oblast, Russia:

Tonight, in the Smolensk Oblast of the Russia, the chemical enterprise “Dorogobuzh” was attacked. It is a major Russian industrial enterprise that is part of the Acron Group.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 25, 2026 at 4:45 AM

The company’s main activity is the production of chemical products used by the Russian military-industrial complex.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 25, 2026 at 4:45 AM

That’s enough for tonight.

Your daily Patron!

There are no new Patron skeets or videos today.

Here is some adjacent material.

1/2 💙💛 Today marks 4 years since the invasion of Ukraine began.
Despite immense hardship, animal rescuers continue to show extraordinary courage, from frontline evacuations to caring for homeless cats & dogs & finding them families.
🐾 Their work goes on & so will our support.
#EasternEuroAnimals

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— Naturewatch Foundation (@naturewatch.org) February 24, 2026 at 7:05 AM

Open thread!

Address by the President of Ukraine on the Fourth Anniversary of the Beginning of Russia’s Full-Scale Invasion of Ukraine

24 February 2026 – 08:00

Dear Ukrainians!

Today marks exactly four years since Putin started his three-day push to take Kyiv. And that, in fact, says a great deal about our resistance, about how Ukraine has fought all this time. Behind those words stand millions of our people. Behind those words stand immense courage, incredibly hard work, endurance, and the long path Ukraine has been pursuing since February 24.

This office – this small room in the bunker on Bankova Street – this is where I held my first conversations with world leaders at the start of the war. Here I spoke with President Biden, and it was right here that I heard: Volodymyr, there is a threat. You need to leave Ukraine urgently. We are ready to help with that. And here I replied that I need ammunition, not a ride.

And not because we are all fearless or made of steel – we are all human beings, and on that day, every one of us, all Ukrainians, felt fear and pain; many were in shock, and many did not know what to say. But on some invisible level, all of us knew that we have no other Ukraine, that this is our home, and all of us understood what had to be done.

Such was the choice. The choice that millions of Ukrainians made back then. Our people did not raise a white flag – they defended the blue and yellow one. And the occupiers, who thought they would be met here with crowds waving flowers, saw lines at the recruitment centers instead. Our people chose resistance. And our warriors stood firm, and civilians defended cities and villages, streets and yards. Ordinary people, absolutely, forming living walls, stopped columns of military vehicles, and all together showed lost Russia the only right road.

Everyone understood: every tomorrow had to be won. Ukraine had to stand – the state had to stand no matter what. And despite everything, our Ukraine had to keep functioning. Much was done here; we had never shown this facility before – it’s empty now, of course, but at the beginning of the war, there were hundreds of people here.

I worked here, then went upstairs to address you, the people. Here was our team, the government, daily coordination with the military, phone calls, the search for solutions – everything necessary for Ukraine to endure. Weapons had to be delivered. Medicine and food were delivered to cities blockaded by the enemy. To preserve the life Ukraine fights for so desperately.

And to be honest, things were different at times – here, both formal and blunt language was used, because every aid package, every sanction against Russia, every shipment of weapons – all of these had to be truly fought for. We had to fight tooth and nail for the faith in Ukraine. We had to make sure the world got involved.

And this was the key message of our appeals to European countries, to the U.S. Congress, to most parliaments around the world – and to the people, of course. To ordinary people – to millions across the globe – be with us, be with Ukraine, believe in us, stand with Ukraine, be brave like Ukraine!

These calls worked, because Ukrainians fought in a way that took your breath away, and this resistance was visible even from space, and that was absolutely inspiring, so very soon everyone saw it – this blue-and-yellow sea: thousands of people with our flags in squares across Europe and the world.

And so – gradually, with difficulty, step by step, brick by brick – Ukraine built the support that allowed us to hold out: when we made it through the first day of the war. The longest day of our lives. Then another. And another. Then a week. Two weeks. And then – a month. And we saw spring.

We won it back then – when it seemed that this February would never end, we gained our first spring amid a great war. It was a turning point, and for the first time, a thought flashed through everyone’s mind: we can do this. Ukraine can do this.

I really like the phrase that everyone was reposting at the time – a kind of summary of the first stage of the full-scale war, when Ukraine said: “You think I’ve fallen to my knees? I’ve just tied my tactical boots.”

And ahead of us was a road. And even in this long tunnel, you couldn’t fit a millionth of the pain Ukraine has endured during this time. The pain Russia brought to each of our families, to every Ukrainian heart.

Bucha. Irpin. Borodyanka. Mass graves. Hostomel. Mriya. Kharkiv. Mykolaiv. Regional state administration. Kakhovka Dam. Zaporizhzhia NPP. Kremenchuk and Kryvyi Rih. Ternopil and Lviv. Olenivka. Chasiv Yar. Kyiv. Okhmatdyt. Kramatorsk. Train station. A toy. Mariupol. Drama theater. The inscription: Children. Odesa. Apartment building. A little girl. Three months. Vilnyansk. Maternity ward. An infant. Two days…

Men do not fight like this. People do not act like this. Ukrainians will not forget it. Let this footage be seen by everyone who has no pangs of conscience, by all who still extend a hand to Russian evil and still buy Putin’s oil.

But all this time, we have not let our anger eat us from within. Ukrainians have turned their own rage into energy for the fight and have proven: we can be forced into shelters, but it is impossible to drive Ukraine underground forever. We inevitably rise, we return, we continue to fight – because we fight for life. For the right to stand on our land – and to breathe our own air. And Ukraine knows these feelings well – when, despite everything, after the all-clear, we come up from the bomb shelter, and with us, hope emerges, soaring into the sky; whenever the Ukrainian flag is raised – whenever it returned and returns to where it rightfully belongs.

And this was the next important stage of our struggle – when Ukraine not only endured, not only holds the defense, but strikes back. When entire cities made history. Hero Cities. Cities of Heroes. They moved forward. There were the first offensives, the first successes, and what can never be forgotten – the first eyes, the eyes of Ukrainians who had waited for their own. Balakliya, Izyum, Kupyansk, Kherson. Everyone saw how the occupiers were driven out of the Kyiv region, out of the Sumy region, the Chernihiv region. And everyone learned about the Ukrainian teleport to the other world for the enemy – Chornobaivka. Saw how Russian ultimatums turned into goodwill gestures. How Zmiinyi Island became ours again.

How the word “bavovna” gained a new meaning, and how we rejoiced when the first “bavovna” was heard in Russia. It is not malice – this is simply what justice sounds like in Ukrainian. It sounds like Stuhna, Vilkha, Neptune, and the roar with which the cruiser Moskva sank. Back then – it was a big moment. Later – it became a tradition.

And little else lifts Ukrainian spirits like the footage of the enemy’s military facilities and oil refineries burning. When it happened for the first time – it was major news. Now – it is almost daily.

And what once seemed unthinkable has now become the norm. Patriots, IRIS-Ts, NASAMS, F-16s – and something greater: our own weapons, our long-range capability.

Just realize this. Ukraine has come a long way – from the point when we were being given body armor to the point when we ourselves produce more than three million FPV drones a year. From the days when we admired Javelins and Bayraktars to the day when we have our own Sichen, Hor, Vampire, Palianytsia, Peklo, Ruta, Flamingo. From asking to close the sky to the ability to shoot down hundreds of “shaheds” in a single night. From hedgehogs and fortifications on the streets of Kyiv to the Kursk operation and the Spiderweb.

But that is still not enough – we will do more, because Russia does not stop, unfortunately, and wages war by every method – against peace, against us, against people.

Putin understands he is not capable of defeating Ukraine on the battlefield, and the “second army in the world” is fighting against apartment buildings and power plants. And now Ukrainians are enduring the hardest winter in history. And terror almost every night. I do not know who else could withstand this without collapsing or wavering. Ukrainians are doing it. And this is great exhaustion. For sure. What other people could do this? Despite the war, all these attacks, all these trials – to overcome evil – to overcome despair and hopelessness. And to hold on. And to hold on in unity.

And amid all this – to achieve results – everywhere. To recover after every attack. Each time, to replenish our air defense with missiles. To go to work every morning. To hold the line constantly. To speak with the world as equals. To gain EU candidate status, to bring thousands of our prisoners home. To make every international platform – from Davos to the UN – pro-Ukrainian. To make Ukraine’s voice in the world loud, to win Eurovision, to take the Oscar and the BAFTA, to be absolute world boxing champions, and to prove that Ukrainians have honor of the highest grade – far more valuable than any gold of this spineless IOC.

From each such act, from all such steps, achievements, and small victories, the great Ukraine is formed. Great – because it has you. People who inspire the planet.

And we remember how the first foreign leaders arrived in Ukraine at the beginning of this war. And the term “official visit” cannot in the slightest convey what these meetings were for us. We understood who was truly our brother and friend, who did not fear, did not hesitate, did not stain their name and did not worry about how not to anger Putin. I thank every leader who chose the side of light in history – chose Ukraine. In Europe, the United States, Canada, Japan, Australia. Everyone who stands with us.

And I really want to come here with the President of the United States one day. I know for certain: only by coming to Ukraine, and seeing with one’s own eyes our life and our struggle, feeling our people and the enormity of this pain – only then can one understand what this war is really about. And because of whom. Who the aggressor is here and who must be pressured. That Ukraine defends life, fights precisely for this, and that this is not a street fight – it is an attack by a sick state on a sovereign one, and that Putin is this war. He is the cause of its beginning and the obstacle to its end. And it is Russia that must be put in its place. So that there can be real peace.

They say time heals. I am not sure. At least I do not know how much time it will take to heal all our wounds – all these painful questions of “How many?” that burn inside. How many tears have been cried? How many attacks and vile strikes? How many scars in our hearts – how many flags in our cemeteries? How many names?

Da Vinci, Grenka, Juice. Zheka, Tykhyi, Nord. Petrychenko, Matsievskyi, sailor Vitalii Skakun, pilot Oleksandr Oksanchenko. Daria “Delta” Lopatina. Lana “Sati” Chornohorska. Yulia Bereziuk, Marharyta Polovinko. Thousands, thousands of heroes who gave their lives so that Ukraine may live. Our warrior-defenders. Our guardian angels.

I am certain they have told God the whole truth about this war. About how we defend ourselves. We defend our land, life, independence, our culture, history, our St. Sophia, our people. 1,462 days of the full-scale war. 12 years since the beginning of Russia’s aggression. For some – an entire lifetime. Of course, we all want the war to end. But no one will allow Ukraine to end. We want peace. Strong, dignified, lasting. And before each round of negotiations, I give our team very clear directives. They always come in classified decrees, but I will certainly not reveal a state secret if I share my main message: not to nullify all these years, not to devalue – the entire struggle, the courage, the dignity, everything Ukraine has gone through. This cannot be surrendered, forgotten, betrayed. That is why there are so many rounds of negotiations, and a battle for every word, for every point, for real security guarantees, so that the agreement is strong. History is watching us closely. The agreement must not simply be signed – it must be accepted, accepted by Ukrainians.

Dear people,

The strength that has sustained us all these years is you. Our people. Our resistance is you. Ukrainian men. Ukrainian women. Everyone who does not give up. Our eyes may be tired, but our backs are unbroken. And I want to thank each and every one who carries independence on their shoulders. Every warrior – for your strength. Your parents, your children, your wives and husbands – for their endurance. I thank all those whose work makes Ukraine stronger. Those who bring light and warmth back to our homes. Those who heal. Those who volunteer. Those who teach. Those who study – in universities or in schools – and who learn the most important thing: to be human, to be Ukrainian. I am proud of you. I believe in each and every one of you. In all of you to whom, without any exaggeration, I have the honor to say: Great people of a great Ukraine.

Looking back at the beginning of the invasion and reflecting on today, we have every right to say: we have defended our independence, we have not lost our statehood. Ukraine exists not just on the map. Ukraine is an actor in international relations. Our capital stands, and so do Kharkiv, Sumy, Chernihiv, Dnipro, Zaporizhzhia, Kramatorsk, Odesa, Lviv. Other cities. Putin has not achieved his goals. He has not broken Ukrainians. He has not won this war. We have preserved Ukraine, and we will do everything to secure peace and justice.

Less than a week until spring. We are getting through the hardest winter in history. This is a fact. And it is very difficult. Difficult for all of us. But just as on the first day of the war – we continue to build our tomorrow – step by step, task by task, achievement by achievement, and every result, every success, every one of our “Ukraine did it” is the merit of all of you. The Ukrainian people.

Glory to Ukraine!

President Zelenskyy also addressed a special session of the European Parliament today.

Georgia:

Georgians and Ukrainians have gathered in front of the Ukrainian Embassy in Tbilisi on the 4-year anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. 🇬🇪🇺🇦

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— Rusudan Djakeli (@rusudandjakeli.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 9:50 AM

A march in support of Ukraine was held in Tbilisi today, on the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale aggression in Ukraine.

#GeorgiaProtsests
Day 454

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— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 2:27 PM

The Ukrainian anthem performed in front of the Ukrainian Embassy in Tbilisi, Georgia.

People have gathered to commemorate the 4-year anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion and to stand in solidarity with Ukraine. 🇺🇦🇬🇪

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— Rusudan Djakeli (@rusudandjakeli.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 10:02 AM

Georgians express solidarity with Ukraine at the Ukrainian Embassy in Tbilisi.

They are singing Oy u Luzi Chervona Kalyna, the song that so many Georgians learned by heart 4 years ago.

To be honest, in 2022-2023, before long-term protests broke out in Georgia, 1/

📷 MOSE

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— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 11:43 AM

Ukrainian symbolism and identity was such a central part of our own anti-autocratic and anti-Russian struggle against the Georgian Dream. Ukrainian music also dominated many spaces. 2/

— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 11:43 AM

Those were the days when national and patriotic discontent was rising, but the Georgian Dream hadn’t brought dictatorial legislation yet, and hadn’t officially disengaged from the EU integration. 3/

— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 11:43 AM

Now too, you’ll find 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 flags together so often in Tbilisi graffiti.

Tonight’s Day 454 of #GeorgiaProtests will also incorporate a greater amount of Ukrainian flags than usual. 4/4.

— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 11:43 AM

February 23 — Chechen and Ingush deportation day
February 24 — Full-scale invasion of Ukraine
February 25 — Soviet Russian occupation of Tbilisi and then Georgia

— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 3:54 PM

Thanks to Ukraine, freedom in the world still stands a chance.

And if you are an American or European person hindering Ukrainian success, you are betraying your own ancestry, as well as your children’s future.

Glory and victory to Ukraine! 🇺🇦

— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 7:24 AM

Canada:

PM Carney reaffirmed support for 🇺🇦, announcing:
• ~$892M toward PURL
• Operation UNIFIER expansion
• ~$2B in military assistance
• 400 armoured vehicles
• New sanctions against +100 RU shadow fleet vessels
• Coordination with EU/UK to lower the RU oil price cap
• $20M to Ukraine Energy Support Fund

— Olga Nesterova (@onestpress.onestnetwork.com) February 24, 2026 at 12:09 PM

Four years ago, Russia launched an illegal, unjustified invasion of Ukraine.

Four years on, Canada stands with Ukraine.

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— Mark Carney (@mark-carney.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 1:48 PM

France:

🇺🇦 The Eiffel Tower was illuminated in blue and yellow

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— Maria Drutska (@mariadrutska.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 6:49 PM

Britain:

Ukrainian children in London sing the national anthem on the 4th anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion. Let’s hope they will soon be able to return to a peaceful land, free of Rusisian forces & Russian violence.

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— Ian Bond (@cerianbond.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 2:31 PM

Sort of Britain:

Prince Harry shows his support for Ukraine in a moving video. 💛💙

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 9:39 AM

Germany:

The Brandenburg Gate today 💙💛

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 12:45 PM

Poland:

On the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the President of Poland called on democratic nations to maintain unity.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 12:00 PM

“We are here to show our solidarity with Ukraine on the fourth anniversary of Russia’s aggression against this country. Khreshchatyk, Maidan – this is where pro-European Ukraine was born” – Foreign Minister Sikorski.

Thank you, @radek-sikorski.bsky.social !

I’ve added subtitles to the video.

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— Anton Gerashchenko (@antongerashchenko.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 9:00 AM

The Netherlands:

For the 4th year in a row, we are coming together in Amsterdam to demonstrate our support to Ukraine.

The Ukrainian spirit is stronger than Russian steel and can’t be broken.

We are deeply thankful to the Ukrainians for defending our freedom. We will always stand with you! 🇳🇱🇺🇦

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— Ruben Brekelmans (@rubenbrekelmans.bsky.social) February 22, 2026 at 1:27 PM

The EU:

Despite initial reporting this morning, the EU managed to get the loan guarantees over the hump.

Great news, Roberta Metsola announced that she has signed off the €90 billion loan to Ukraine from the EU.
It seems Orban and Fico has been bypassed.
Thank you EU 🇪🇺🇺🇦

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 9:56 AM

The hump being shaped like Orban and Fico.

The US:

The U.S. administration did not send a single representative to the official commemoration events marking the anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, nor did it issue a single word through its embassy in Kyiv — not even a standard diplomatic boilerplate.

— Illia Ponomarenko (@ioponomarenko.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 8:03 AM

This is all just tragic at this point.

— Illia Ponomarenko (@ioponomarenko.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 8:03 AM

United States abstains in UN vote on support for peace in Ukraine. Fascist Russia voted against.
The US objected to text in the resolution on the territorial integrity of Ukraine and the need to achieve a just peace.

Under Trump, the US has fallen so very far, so very fast.

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— Euan MacDonald (@euanmacdonald.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 1:07 PM

And while I’m not watching, I guarantee that if there’s any mention of Ukraine it’ll be that Trump finds it harder than he thought to end the war, but he doesn’t get credit for the other eight or nine he’s stopped, and Zelenskyy better get his tuchas in gear and surrender already.

Back to Ukraine.

The defining face of the first day of the full-scale invasion is Ukrainian marine Vitalii Skakun.

He heroically sacrificed his life by blowing up a bridge in Henichesk to slow the advancing Russian columns.

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— Illia Ponomarenko (@ioponomarenko.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 8:05 AM

These are the kinds of people who lived among us — and the kinds of people who save the world from evil.

— Illia Ponomarenko (@ioponomarenko.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 8:05 AM

OTD in 2022 I bluffed “consequences graver than any you have faced in history of you intervene” and I am “not bluffing”. I bluffed.

You’re is so far past our red lines that Medvedev’s threats just make you laugh.

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— Darth Putin (@darthputinkgb.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 8:09 AM

OTD in 2022 your Prez predicted the exact invasion date.

See as it seems such a mystery how He did it, your Prez will reveal the secret in following thread.

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— Darth Putin (@darthputinkgb.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 2:46 AM

2014-2022: Russia Invades Ukraine. Occupies land.
March 2021: Openly moves Army into invasion mode as rehearsal for more invasion
July 2021: Writes a 7000 word article about how Ukraine should not exist. Publishes it in numerous outlets in many languages

— Darth Putin (@darthputinkgb.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 2:46 AM

Nov 2021: Overtly moves army back into invasion mode for invasion meant to make Ukraine no longer exist, as per public statements.
Dec 2021: Publicly makes lists of demands & promises “military” solution of they are not met. Does not get demands met

— Darth Putin (@darthputinkgb.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 2:46 AM

Feb 2022. Invades Ukraine, to the astonishment of idiots.

— Darth Putin (@darthputinkgb.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 6:29 AM

Do you remember that very night — the night before the day of all days, four years ago?

How many of us didn’t sleep at all.

We sat in the dark in silence, in front of our laptops, refreshing news feeds.

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— Illia Ponomarenko (@ioponomarenko.bsky.social) February 23, 2026 at 9:17 PM

Here was Blinken saying the invasion was inevitable within the next few hours. Here was Zelensky speaking in the middle of the night in Russian, pleading with all Russians to come to their senses at the last moment and not take a fatal step.

— Illia Ponomarenko (@ioponomarenko.bsky.social) February 23, 2026 at 9:17 PM

Here was the news that the runways of Ukraine’s largest airports had been blocked with overturned vehicles.

We sat with Flighradar24 open. Here at 1 a.m., over northern and eastern Ukraine, an American drone was making multiple circles, monitoring the massive Russian grouping on our border.

— Illia Ponomarenko (@ioponomarenko.bsky.social) February 23, 2026 at 9:17 PM

Here was the news that the runways of Ukraine’s largest airports had been blocked with overturned vehicles.

We sat with Flighradar24 open. Here at 1 a.m., over northern and eastern Ukraine, an American drone was making multiple circles, monitoring the massive Russian grouping on our border.

— Illia Ponomarenko (@ioponomarenko.bsky.social) February 23, 2026 at 9:17 PM

A plane seemed to have taken off, evacuating Turkish diplomats. They must have been among the last ones… Russia had closed all airspace along its entire border with Ukraine later on.

In journalists’ chats, hundreds of colleagues just as sleepless. “Guys, be ready… it seems like today.”

— Illia Ponomarenko (@ioponomarenko.bsky.social) February 23, 2026 at 9:17 PM

But hope, of course, died last.

Maybe today it would pass. Maybe it was still a bluff and blackmail, because that would be logical. They couldn’t possibly go through with such madness. It would be a catastrophe of biblical proportions and a bloody slaughter in which it would be impossible to win.

— Illia Ponomarenko (@ioponomarenko.bsky.social) February 23, 2026 at 9:17 PM

They couldn’t fail to understand that.
And then — “live” on Russian TV (in reality, of course, everything had been recorded well in advance as part of a pre-invasion propaganda performance) — Putin’s face distorted with sadistic hatred and a smirk of gloating.

— Illia Ponomarenko (@ioponomarenko.bsky.social) February 23, 2026 at 9:17 PM

What is there to say, four years have passed since that night.

— Illia Ponomarenko (@ioponomarenko.bsky.social) February 23, 2026 at 9:17 PM

If someone had told me then that four years later independent Ukraine would be at the forefront of the entire free world,
fighting alone on equal terms against the full military power of Russia,
with the Ukrainian flag over every regional capital that was free from occupation that night,

— Illia Ponomarenko (@ioponomarenko.bsky.social) February 23, 2026 at 9:17 PM

with Ukrainian-made drones and cruise missiles that smash Russian oil refineries, airfields, and giant military factories every single night
— I would never, ever have believed it.

— Illia Ponomarenko (@ioponomarenko.bsky.social) February 23, 2026 at 9:17 PM

with Ukrainian-made drones and cruise missiles that smash Russian oil refineries, airfields, and giant military factories every single night
— I would never, ever have believed it.

— Illia Ponomarenko (@ioponomarenko.bsky.social) February 23, 2026 at 9:17 PM

And yet, through unparalleled heroism and enormous sacrifice, fighting Ukraine has changed the course of history.

She disproved all the arrogant skeptics who were burying her alive back then and giving her no chance, already ready to run and “negotiate” with yet another deranged maniac.

— Illia Ponomarenko (@ioponomarenko.bsky.social) February 23, 2026 at 9:17 PM

Glory to Ukraine!

— Illia Ponomarenko (@ioponomarenko.bsky.social) February 23, 2026 at 9:17 PM

The hard part about doing propaganda is that the past changes so quickly you have no idea what will happen yesterday.

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— Darth Putin (@darthputinkgb.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 2:58 PM

The Kremlin’s latest excuses: nukes and pipelines.

Let’s be honest. The very existence of a free and independent Ukraine is unacceptable to Putin.

They don’t want a just and lasting peace. It must be forced upon them, or the war will not end, merely pause from time to time.

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— Maria Drutska (@mariadrutska.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 11:54 AM

Oh, look, the Russians have once again “sensationally discovered” nuclear weapons in Ukraine.

It had been quite a while since they last “uncovered” yet another “dirty bomb” or a network of “biolabs” and I was starting to worry.

— Illia Ponomarenko (@ioponomarenko.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 9:22 AM

Over the 4 years of full-scale war, Russia has attacked Ukraine’s energy system 5,796 times, Ukraine’s Energy Minister Denys Shmyhal:

“Unfortunately, 247 energy workers have been killed while performing their duties. They fought for light,” he said. 😔🕯

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 9:00 AM

On the night of February 24, the Unmanned Systems Forces targeted: Uragan MLRS, Buk air defense system, Pantsir air defense system, and Malakhit radar.

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— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 4:28 AM

Currently, about 30% of all Russian strike drones, including Shahed-type, are destroyed using interceptor drones, according to the Deputy Commander of Unmanned Air Defense Systems of the Ukrainian Air Force.

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— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 3:27 AM

The Air Force stated that over four years of war, Ukrainian air defense has destroyed more than 140,000 aerial targets.

Among them:

▪️86 Kh-47M2 “Kinzhal” aeroballistic missiles;
▪️709 “Kalibr” cruise missiles;
▪️2,459 Kh-101 cruise missiles;
▪️13 Kh-22/Kh-32 cruise missiles;

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 5:09 PM

▪️12 “Oniks” anti-ship missiles;
▪️261 “Iskander-K” cruise missiles;
▪️274 “Iskander-M/KN-23” ballistic missiles;
▪️11 “Tsirkon” anti-ship missiles;
▪️30 missiles of other types;
▪️540 guided air-launched missiles;

— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 5:09 PM

▪️44,700 Shahed-type attack UAVs;
▪️14,900 reconnaissance UAVs;
▪️7,500 “Lancet” UAVs;
▪️70,300 other types of UAVs.

— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 5:09 PM

Mariupol:

💔 The last hours of peaceful life in Mariupol.
February 24, 2022.

Soon after, Russia would begin pounding the city with everything it had.

📹 by journalist Serhii Vaganov

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— Maria Drutska (@mariadrutska.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 10:46 AM

Bakhmut:

💔 Bakhmut – before and after the Russian invasion.

A city that once lived, worked, and breathed, reduced to ruins by Russia.

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— Maria Drutska (@mariadrutska.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 10:23 AM

Bucha:

There’s already a different kind of air outside here in Bucha — you can feel it.

It’s slowly turning warm in that unmistakably early-spring way.

The hardest winter of this war, and the coldest winter in many years, is finally drawing to a close.

— Illia Ponomarenko (@ioponomarenko.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 8:12 AM

This is the fourth winter under missiles and bombs, in darkness and cold. And once again fascist Russia has failed to break Ukraine, no matter what it tried.

— Illia Ponomarenko (@ioponomarenko.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 8:12 AM

Kharkiv:

I will never forget those first Russian missiles and artillery four years ago. There have been many more dangerous situations since, much closer explosions, but never again have I felt such paralyzing fear, not only for myself but for everyone I love.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 10:28 AM

It was a fear combined with the crashing realization that our lives had just been destroyed, and nothing would ever be the same again.

​Kharkiv, four years ago.

— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 10:28 AM

Kyiv:

Russian Strikes on Kyiv Captured from Space

Footage from the International Space Station shows the massive overnight bombardment of Ukraine on December 27: ballistic missiles streaking through the sky, flashes from impacts

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 1:11 PM

near Kyiv and the Trypillia power plant, and the work of air defenses.

That night, the enemy launched 40 missiles at Ukraine.

— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 1:11 PM

Odesa:

🇺🇦Today we remember. We remember everything that happened. We remember those who are no longer with us. We remember every day of these four years — with pain, with pride, with unshakeable faith: we will endure. Because we are Odesa. We are Ukraine. And we will not give up!
Never!

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— Vitalis Viva (@vitalisviva.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 7:17 AM

Russian occupied Donetsk Oblast:

The Ukrainian General Staff reports that on the night of February 24, 2026, units of the Missile Forces struck the command post of Russia’s 5th Army near Novopetrykivka, Donetsk region, with ATACMS missiles.

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— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 7:22 AM

Lviv:

On the night of February 24, “Beams of Memory” were lit over the graves of fallen defenders at the Lychakiv and Holoskiv cemeteries in Lviv, marking the eve of the fourth anniversary of the full-scale invasion.

Eternal memory to the fallen Heroes.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 9:39 AM

The Kremlin (or wherever Putin is holed up today):

Putin stated that someone else is trying to derail the negotiation process.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 12:57 PM

The Republic of Tatartstan, Russia:

Russian Almetyevsk, Kaleykino Pumping Station is still on fire 🔥

Probably they’re celebrating with fireworks the 4th anniversary of their three‑day “Special Military Operation.”

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 8:51 AM

Air raid sirens sounded in Tatarstan, Russia today. Reports indicate a new drone strike in Almetyevsk.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 2:35 PM

That’s enough for tonight.

Your daily Patron!

There are no new Patron skeets or videos today.

Here is some adjacent material.

Four years ago Russia began it’s full scale invasion of Ukraine. They expected it to fall in days. They were wrong. Long live Ukraine.

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— Larry the Cat (@number10cat.bsky.social) February 24, 2026 at 7:50 AM

Open thread!

Olena Zelenska Calls on the World to Restore Justice for Ukrainian Children

23 February 2026 – 19:30

First Lady of Ukraine Olena Zelenska took part in the Justice Conference held in Kyiv.

“When the full-scale Russian invasion began four years ago, children were being born in bomb shelters already in the very first days. We followed every such story – they frightened us and at the same time gave hope that life is stronger than war. Today those children are already four. Their entire lives have passed under the sound of air raid sirens. And Russia’s aggression continues. It is important to use every opportunity to remind the international community about the children killed and injured by Russia,” the President’s wife noted.

Olena Zelenska paid special attention to the issue of young Ukrainians abducted by Russia. A separate panel of the conference was devoted to bringing these children home and to the mechanisms of the President of Ukraine’s Bring Kids Back UA initiative. Participants discussed the need to increase pressure on Russia, as well as to create effective international coordination that will make it possible to return the children home and ensure their rehabilitation.

During the opening of this panel, the First Lady noted that within the Bring Kids Back UA initiative a comprehensive reintegration program for returned children is gradually being developed.

The system of psychological assistance is expanding both at the state level and thanks to private initiatives. In particular, the Olena Zelenska Foundation funded six sessions of the Voices of Children camp in 2024 and four more in 2025.

The Foundation is also implementing the Room for Childhood project, which provides for the construction of fully equipped houses for large foster families. Thanks to this, 18 families have already received a new home. Another 20 houses are under construction.

Ukraine also has initiatives aimed at developing alternatives to orphanages, including Social Housing for Youth and the supported living service.

“It is impossible to compensate children for the years of childhood stolen by Russia’s war. But we must at least try to heal their wounds. There is something without which healing is impossible. It is justice. Only the feeling that the world remains just restores the strength to go on living, to build the future, to plan, and to trust tomorrow,” Olena Zelenska emphasized.

Georgia:

Day 453 of #GeorgiaProtests

📷 Paata Kvirkvaia

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— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) February 23, 2026 at 2:28 PM

European ambassadors in Georgia paid their respects to the fallen young cadets (junkers) in Soviet Russia’s 1921 annexation of Georgia.

Meanwhile, regime bots had a laughing online campaign against the memory of one of the most distinguished martyrs, 19-year-old Maro Makashvili.

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— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) February 23, 2026 at 12:30 PM

This picture went viral in Georgia of a building perched precariously on the edge of a massive excavation pit, and quickly turned into a meme.

Scenes like this are common in Tbilisi, with controversial construction permits issued under GD’s Mayor Kakha Kaladze.

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— Rusudan Djakeli (@rusudandjakeli.bsky.social) February 23, 2026 at 8:20 AM

The currently ongoing court hearing on the “sabotage case” that prosecutes near-entirety of democratic leadership has been closed — no access to journalists, CSOs, or anyone.

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— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) February 23, 2026 at 8:59 AM

Turkiye:

Large-scale rallies in support of Ukrainian defenders took place in Türkiye. In the center of Ankara, hundreds of families of missing and captured servicemen unfurled a massive 170-meter flag featuring 5,800 portraits to remind the world of the price of freedom.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 23, 2026 at 12:21 PM

The Netherlands:

In Amsterdam, Ukrainian servicemen undergoing rehabilitation in the Netherlands took part in a march carrying banners reading “This is who we protect.”

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 23, 2026 at 5:27 AM

The EU:

🇪🇺 Russia Must Make Concessions: EU Document Outlines Conditions for Peace Between Russia and Ukraine

The EU calls on Russia to withdraw its troops not only from Ukraine, but also from Georgia, Armenia, Moldova, Belarus…

Read more 👀
theukrainianreview.info/russia-must-…

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— The Ukrainian Review (@theukrainianreview.bsky.social) February 19, 2026 at 7:21 AM

From Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty:

Briefing #1: What The EU Says Russia Should Concede

What You Need To Know: The EU top diplomat, Kaja Kallas, has distributed a paper among EU member states, seen by RFE/RL, that spells out concessions Russia should make in ongoing diplomatic talks with Ukraine, which the United States is mediating. The demands include a reduction of Russian troops levels and their withdrawal from neighboring countries, reparation payments, and the need to democratize its society.

Neither the EU nor individual European nations have a seat at the table in the various negotiations that have been ongoing for close to a year to stop the war in Ukraine. Seeing as the EU funds most aid to Ukraine and a potential 20-point peace plan spells out clear Brussels competences such as Ukrainian EU membership by 2027, European leaders have bemoaned their lack of political clout in the talks.

Deep Background: The discussion paper, titled European Core Interests in Ensuring a Comprehensive, Just and Lasting Peace and Continent’s Security, insists that there can be no peace or security “without the EU at the negotiating table and without taking into account [the] EU’s core interests.”

The document presents a very “EU maximalist” view on what Russia should do, with one EU diplomat telling RFE/RL that “we pay back to Russian maximalists demands on Ukraine.” The Kremlin has so far refused to give up its goal of controlling the entire Ukrainian region of Donbas and reportedly also balked at ideas such as stationing NATO troops in western Ukraine as a post-deal security deal or paying for damages caused by the war.

Another European official familiar with the paper says: “Getting to peace isn’t all about Ukraine conceding. We also have to talk about what Russia must do, ahead of sending any envoy there.”

There have been discussions among EU capitals about creating an EU envoy who deals specifically with Russia even though there is no agreement who this person would be or what their mandate would be.

The paper will be discussed by EU ambassadors on February 17, and it is expected that at least parts of might come up for debate when the bloc’s foreign ministers meet in Brussels on February 23.

Drilling Down:

• In the first chapter, titled Russia to Respect Independence, Sovereignty and Territorial Integrity of States, the main idea is that if Ukraine should cap its troop levels or even withdraw them from some areas — something discussed during the US-mediated talks — then Russia should do the same. It also demands that no “de jure” recognition of the occupied Ukrainian territories occur and that those areas are de-militarized.
• The next chapter, A Secure and Stable Europe, includes a demand that “Russia stops disinformation campaigns, sabotage, cyber-attacks, airspace violations and interference in elections on European territory and in neighbouring countries.”
• Another ultimatum stipulates no nuclear weapons in Belarus and a “ban of Russian military presence and deployments in Belarus, Ukraine, Republic of Moldova, Georgia and Armenia.” Russian troops have for decades been stationed in Russian-controlled breakaway regions such as Abkhazia, South Ossetia, and Transdniester, as well as bases in Armenia and Belarus.
• On the need for Moscow to adhere to international law, the call by the EU includes no blanket amnesty for war crimes, access for international investigators to sites of suspected war crimes, and that no domestic Russian law is elevated above international treaties spelling out various Russian obligations globally.
• When it comes to reparations, the text notes that “Russia must compensate and contribute to Ukraine’s reconstruction, for damages to European states and European companies, and for ecological damages it has caused.”
• The EU has frozen some 210 billion euros worth of Russian sovereign wealth assets but has so far failed to agree on a method to either legally confiscate them or leverage them to channel funds to Ukraine. Brussels has, however, sent the quarterly windfall profits of this money to Kyiv.
• The final demands concern the domestic situation in Russia with the paper calling for free and fair elections with international monitoring, a release of all political prisoners, a return of deported civilians and children, media freedom, a repeal of the foreign agent law, ceasing “historical falsification and other laws that criminalize dissent and delegitimize independent media and civil society” and full cooperation in investigations of the killings of the Russian opposition leaders Aleksei Navalny and Boris Nemtsov.

France:

“Ambassador” Charles Kushner has his credentials shelved by France.
This convicted felon was chosen by Trump to be ambassador.
Chris Christie described Kushner’s crime as”one of the most loathsome, disgusting crimes that I prosecuted when I was US Attorney.”
#scumbag
www.ctvnews.ca/world/articl…

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— Charlie Angus (@charlieangus104.bsky.social) February 23, 2026 at 4:30 PM

From CTV News:

France on Monday moved to block U.S. envoy Charles Kushner from having access to government ministers, after he failed to show up to explain comments about a killed far-right activist.

Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot summoned Kushner after the U.S. embassy in Paris on Sunday reposted comments by the Trump administration in Washington about Quentin Deranque.

Deranque, 23, died from head injuries following clashes between radical-left and far-right supporters on the sidelines of a February 12 protest against a politician from the left-wing France Unbowed (LFI) party in Lyon.

Barrot on Sunday denounced any attempts to exploit the killing “for political ends” and summoned Kushner for a meeting at 7:00 pm local time (1800 GMT) on Monday.

But a diplomatic source told AFP that the ambassador — whose son, Jared, is married to President Donald Trump’s daughter, Ivanka — sent a senior official from the embassy in his place, citing personal commitments.

“In light of this apparent failure to grasp the basic requirements of the ambassadorial mission and the honour of representing one’s country, the minister (Barrot) has requested that he (Kushner) no longer be allowed direct access to members of the French government,” the foreign ministry said.

Kushner would, however, be permitted to continue his diplomatic duties and have “exchanges” with officials, it added in a statement.

The U.S. administration had denounced far-left political violence and called for those responsible to be brought to justice.

Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has also weighed in, triggering a war of words with French President Emmanuel Macron, who urged her to stop “commenting on what happens in other countries”.

Kushner, who took up his post in Paris last year, had already been summoned to the foreign ministry at the end of August, after the French government took exception to his criticism that Macron was not tackling antisemitism.

The U.S. charge d’affaires — the ambassador’s de facto deputy — attended that meeting.

This is France setting the conditions to declare Kushner Persona Non Grata (PNG) and boot him out of the country. Normally it would never get to this because we’d actually have a foreign service executive as the ambassador to France, not a political appointee and this would get resolved through routine diplomatic channels. However, we do not have a foreign service executive as our ambassador to France. Rather, we have one who only has the job because he’s both the father of Trump’s son in law and a now pardoned by Trump convicted felon. Kushner was charged, tried, and convicted for trying to extort his sister and brother in law over a dispute within the family business. The extortion scheme revolved around hiring a high end sex worker, video taping her having sex with Kushner’s brother in law, then blackmailing him with the tape in exchange for not destroying his sister’s marriage.

It would have been far better for all of humanity if the Bielskys had not rescued Kushner’s parents.

Back to Ukraine.

LTG Budanov, who is now running the Presidential Office, provided his thoughts regarding the peace negotiations:

Kyrylo Budanov: Negotiations Aren’t Going Smoothly, but We Are Clearly Moving Forward and Approaching a Point When All Parties Will Need to Make Final Decisions: Continue This War or Move Toward Peace

23 February 2026 – 15:00

Ukraine’s focus is on peace negotiations that must not only end the war but also prevent a recurrence of Russian aggression. This was stated by Kyrylo Budanov, Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, during his speech at the Justice Conference in Kyiv. The conference is dedicated to holding Russia accountable for the war it initiated against Ukraine.

Kyrylo Budanov emphasized that the war unleashed by the Russian Federation has several key dimensions. According to him, Russia is testing the resilience of the world order and the viability of international institutions. For the Russian Federation, the war is also existential, as the restoration of the Russian empire and spheres of influence is impossible without Ukraine.

The Head of the Presidential Office stressed that such wars do not end on their own. They either conclude with a just resolution or return in an even larger and more dangerous form. Therefore, peace negotiations must not simply halt the war – they must ensure that Russian aggression cannot happen again.

“It is no secret that negotiations aren’t going smoothly, but we are clearly moving forward and approaching a point when all parties will need to make final decisions: continue this war or move toward peace. I hope that justice will ultimately prevail. Thanks to diplomatic efforts and the support of our partners, primarily the United States, we are advancing step by step toward a result,” Kyrylo Budanov said.

According to him, if there are no personal consequences for deciding to wage war against a sovereign state, then all international rules cease to function, the global security order is destroyed, and any other country could become a victim.

“Accountability for aggression is not only a signal about the past – it is a signal about the future: about how the world responds to unlawful uses of force and what consequences await those who violate international norms,” the Head of the Presidential Office noted.

Furthermore, in restoring justice, a compensation mechanism is also crucial, as the war carries a concrete cost: destroyed cities, lost homes, ruined infrastructure, and, most importantly, lives taken, disabilities, and trauma inflicted on Ukrainians. Kyrylo Budanov stressed that at this stage, it is vital to move from documenting damages to making concrete decisions on the compensation mechanism and initiating its operation.

Another important area that requires ongoing attention is the return of Ukrainian children abducted by Russia.

“This is not simply a humanitarian issue – it concerns the future, identity, and safety of our next generations. From the state’s perspective, there are no secondary cases. Every case must be documented, every violation must receive legal assessment, and every child must ultimately be returned home,” he emphasized.

The Head of the Office of the President also highlighted that justice must function both internally and externally, making it essential to reform Ukraine’s judicial system and strengthen its institutions.

“For Ukrainian society, a visible manifestation of justice is the fight against corruption. That is why anti-corruption policy remains a top priority for the Office of the President of Ukraine and the entire government chain,” he said.

Kyrylo Budanov concluded by noting that the world is currently at a point of instability, and how it responds to the war in Ukraine will set rules for decades to come.

“Ukraine has clearly defined its position. Accountability is inevitable. Justice is systemic. And security, ultimately, is reliable. I want to remind us all: the guarantee of justice, the establishment of peace, the restoration of trust, and the safeguarding of our future is our Ukrainian army. As long as the Ukrainian soldier holds the front, both the rear and every citizen of Ukraine remain safe,” said the Head of the Office of the President.

Budanov commented on the negotiations and also added that he hopes a prisoner exchange will take place as early as this week.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 23, 2026 at 9:46 AM

“We are moving slowly, but we are moving. You will only see the finale.” – Budanov said about the negotiations, adding that either the parties will reach an end to the war, or the hostilities will continue.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 23, 2026 at 12:41 PM

“The Russians’ position in the negotiations is: give us Donbas.” – Budanov also emphasized that the Russians have not given a final response regarding a personal meeting between Zelenskyy and Putin.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 23, 2026 at 1:03 PM

President Zelenskyy did meet with Ukrainian service members today and presented them with awards and honors.

Ukraine Is in a Strong Position Because Our Warriors Withstand All Assaults – President Honored Defenders Ahead of the Fourth Anniversary of the Full-Scale Russian War

23 February 2026 – 20:58

On the eve of the fourth anniversary of the full-scale Russian invasion, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy awarded the Orders of the Golden Star to Heroes of Ukraine and handed the awards to the families of fallen Heroes, presented Ukrainian warriors with the Cross of Military Merit and other high state awards, and also presented units of the Defense Forces with combat flags, honorary distinction ribbons “For Courage and Bravery,” and honorary name ribbons.

“Ukraine honors its heroes and lives, unquestionably, thanks to its heroes. Thanks to your relatives, loved ones, our warriors, thanks to our people who did not surrender, were not afraid, and who fight for our state. Fight in the way necessary so that the Russians do not succeed,” the Head of State noted.

The President emphasized: unlike the Russians, we do not consider war, abuse of people, killings, violence, emptiness, and ruin to be something normal. That is why Ukraine cannot surrender, and no one in the world can reconcile with such a Russia if they value life instead. But the Russians can be forced to end the war they themselves started and are prolonging.

“Ukraine is now in its positions, in strong positions. We have withstood many strikes. Ukraine restores and protects life, withstands all assaults, because first and foremost you, the warriors, withstand all assaults. You are our protection,” Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.

The President is convinced that Ukraine will definitely endure, defend its independence, and the right to live.

“We guarantee security for Ukraine and will never betray our people, all Ukrainian heroes of different times who fought for Ukraine and, unfortunately, gave their lives so that Ukraine would exist,” Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized.

Those present honored with a moment of silence all the heroes of our state who died for Ukraine.

The President handed the Orders of the Golden Star to the families of the fallen Heroes of Ukraine. The highest title was awarded posthumously to:

Junior Sergeant Roman Havriliuk. During an attack on enemy positions, he enabled his brothers-in-arms to begin the encirclement by drawing attention to himself and consciously risking his life. Later, he destroyed a reinforcement group with machine-gun fire, forcing the surrounded occupiers to surrender. On August 9, 2023, near Krasnohorivka, his group was ambushed. Roman Havriliuk sustained gunshot wounds, provided aid to himself, but was killed as a result of a subsequent massive Russian artillery shelling.

Senior Police Lieutenant Kyrylo Zibrov (the National Police united assault brigade “Liut”). As a UAV pilot, he monitored the situation, conducted reconnaissance, and adjusted fire in the Donetsk region. In August 2024, he detected a concentration of 25 occupiers and their armored vehicles and struck them with a munition-equipped drone. Kyrylo Zibrov was killed during Russian shelling while covering a brother-in-arms with his body.

Captain Ivan Kotsur. He defended the city of Voznesensk in the Mykolaiv region and prevented occupiers from reaching the Martynivka airfield. In 2023, as deputy company commander of the Marine Corps, he carried out combat missions in the Avdiivka and Berdiansk sectors. During the liberation of the village of Storozhove, his group destroyed about 70 occupiers. On June 13, 2023, the armored vehicle of the group led by Ivan Kotsur was hit by a tank. He sustained a severe wound and was killed while covering the withdrawal of his brothers-in-arms.

Colonel Vasyl Simushyn (State Border Guard Service of Ukraine). He took part in the Anti-Terrorist Operation and the Joint Forces Operation. In July 2023, he repelled enemy assaults in the Kharkiv region, during which he sustained several wounds but refused evacuation. The border guards held their positions, destroyed equipment and occupiers, but the enemy forces prevailed. To evacuate the wounded and move his brothers-in-arms to a safer place, the wounded Vasyl Simushyn detonated a grenade near the enemy and continued firing a grenade launcher until the end.

Soldier Dmytro Chornyi. In the summer of 2025, he was expanding the system of engineering fortifications on the forward edge of defense near the village of Shakhove, Pokrovsk district. He neutralized more than 200 explosive devices, cleared territories, and created passages in minefields. On September 2, he was ambushed by an enemy sabotage and reconnaissance group. In an unequal battle, he eliminated part of the occupiers and, at the cost of his life, enabled an adjacent group to take up defense.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy personally awarded the Heroes of Ukraine the Order of the Golden Star. The awards were received by:

Soldier Vladyslav Bilousov. From March to December 2025, he continuously remained at combat positions near the village of Shevchenko, Pokrovsk district. He held the positions alone and, after waiting for reinforcement with personnel and ammunition, continued repelling numerous attacks by the occupier, inflicting significant losses on them.

Soldier Oleksandr Maretskyi. Since the summer of 2025, he has been carrying out combat missions in the Zaporizhzhia region. In September, while on duty, he detected the movement of occupiers, destroyed some of them, and prevented the loss of a forward position. He covered 2 km under fire to reach a position attacked by the enemy with which contact had been lost. He sustained a head wound but managed to reach the nearest trench and report the situation. Only the next morning was he evacuated.

Senior Lieutenant Oleksandr Khyzhniak. He set up positions near Klishchiivka and took part in battles. His platoon destroyed at least 17 Wagner fighters. In the summer of 2024, he planned combat actions in the Svatove district of the Luhansk region, where the defenders recaptured four positions and destroyed at least 17 occupiers. In 2025, Oleksandr Khyzhniak and his group engaged Russians near Novovodianе, destroying at least 16 enemies.

The Head of State also presented the Cross of Military Merit to the warriors. The award was received by:

Hero of Ukraine, Captain Ivan Kozin. The first Ukrainian defender to receive the Cross of Military Merit for the third time. Commander of a mechanized battalion. In September 2025, near Orestopil in the Dnipro region, he organized a flanking maneuver and an attack on enemy positions. The warriors destroyed more than 40 occupiers and secured the village. For 84 days in semi-encirclement, the units under his command held settlements near the village of Vorone, destroyed more than 200 occupiers, two tanks, and three IFVs. In November, they repelled an attempt by Russians to retake positions near Novoselivka, eliminating more than 70 occupiers.

Captain Andrii Barkovskyi (State Border Guard Service of Ukraine). In January–February 2024 in the Kharkiv region, he was part of a group for detecting and eliminating enemy sabotage groups; later he carried out combat missions in the Sumy region and took part in the Kursk operation. In April last year, thanks to aerial reconnaissance, Ukrainian defenders detected occupiers. The group led by Andrii Barkovskyi destroyed three Russians and captured two. During interrogation, it was possible to determine the operational situation and the enemy’s plans.

Senior Lieutenant Valentyn Bryka. Since December 2024, he has been carrying out combat missions in the Pokrovsk sector. Last year, his artillery platoon destroyed an enemy mortar crew, ensured accurate fire against superior enemy forces, and stopped an offensive by invaders on motorcycles.

Senior Lieutenant Vadym Loza. In the summer of 2025, his unit destroyed a squad of enemy infantry. Then it eliminated eight more occupiers, thwarting a breakthrough attempt. In September, the battalion drove the enemy from positions and advanced 800 m into the defense depth. During one of the Russian attacks, Vadym Loza hit a machine-gun position, forcing the occupiers to stop the assault.

Junior Sergeant Vasyl Mulko (National Guard of Ukraine, “Khartiia”). He repeatedly went to forward positions to rotate personnel, deliver ammunition, and evacuate the wounded. In April last year, after his armored vehicle hit a mine, he dragged wounded brothers-in-arms to the nearest shelter, provided aid, and waited for the arrival of another evacuation group. This saved the lives of three warriors.

Senior Sergeant Ivan Palamarchuk (National Guard of Ukraine, “Azov”). In April 2025, he repelled assaults on Ukrainian positions in the Donetsk region, including personally destroying three occupiers during one of the attacks. On April 24 last year, under intense enemy fire, he carried a wounded officer on his back, provided aid, and called for evacuation, thereby saving the warrior’s life.

Soldiers Vladyslav Savchuk and Ihor Trotsko. Since August 2025, they have been carrying out combat missions as part of a motorized infantry battalion. In September last year, near a firing position, they destroyed an occupier and captured enemy communications equipment. They passed the obtained intelligence data to the command. As a result, four enemy attacks in the Donetsk region were thwarted and the elimination of 15 occupiers was confirmed.

Sergeant Oleh Skoryk. Since the end of 2024, he has been carrying out combat missions near Kotlyne, Pokrovsk district. In June last year, together with his brothers-in-arms, he was attacked with an unknown poisonous gas – the defenders used gas masks and remained in position. He repeatedly provided aid to wounded brothers-in-arms. In total, for more than 150 days in semi-encirclement, he carried out tasks on the line of combat contact.

The defenders also received from the Head of State the Orders of Bohdan Khmelnytsky, III class; the Orders “For Courage,” I–III classes; and the Orders of Danylo Halytskyi.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy presented combat flags to the commanders of the 144th Separate Mechanized Brigade, the 412th Separate Unmanned Systems Brigade “Nemesis,” and the 1121st Training Anti-Aircraft Missile Artillery Regiment.

The distinction “For Courage and Bravery” was received by the commanders of the 67th Separate Mechanized Brigade, the 47th Separate Artillery Brigade, the 11th Separate Army Aviation Brigade “Kherson,” and the 4th Pavlohrad Regiment of the National Guard of Ukraine.

The President also presented honorary name ribbons to the leadership of units: the 127th Separate Heavy Mechanized Brigade was assigned the honorary name “Kharkivska,” the 27th Regiment of the National Guard of Ukraine – “named after Prince Sviatoslav Yaroslavych,” and the 36th Regiment of the National Guard of Ukraine – “Podilskyi.”

Kyiv:

Just another Monday in Kyiv, when your neighbours are terrorists.

A fragment of an Iskander missile was found on the roof of McDonald’s.

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— Maria Drutska (@mariadrutska.bsky.social) February 23, 2026 at 9:09 AM

Hostomel, Kyiv Oblast:

Newly released archival footage by Russians. March 2022, Hostomel: video filmed by a member of a Russian Rosgvardiya special forces unit captures the moment Ka-52 is struck by a Ukrainian MANPADS launched from the direction of Irpin.

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— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) February 23, 2026 at 12:49 PM

Odesa:

In Odesa region as a result of a russian attack last night, two people were killed.

A fire broke out at an auto parts store and among several trucks in a parking lot. Sadly, two people died in the strike, and three others were injured.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 23, 2026 at 8:50 AM

Russian occupied Zaporizhzhia Oblast, Russia:

The Russians showcased an underground town of the “Vostok” troop grouping in the Zaporizhzhia direction. Kilometer-long tunnels lead to a command post where, at a depth of 3 meters beneath concrete slabs, there are a fountain, a swimming pool, a sauna, and even a private museum.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 23, 2026 at 4:29 PM

Huliaipole, Zaporizhzhia Oblast:

The Armed Forces of Ukraine deny yet another Russian false claim about the alleged capture of the settlement of Ternuvate in the Huliaipole sector.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 23, 2026 at 8:28 AM

The 225th Separate Assault Regiment reported that the settlement had not been occupied, and that a small number of Russian troops may be hiding in basements somewhere; they are currently being searched for.

— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 23, 2026 at 8:28 AM

Two fighters from the assault group “Morok” of the 225th Separate Assault Regiment captured six Russian infantrymen from the 114th Motorized Rifle Regiment. A Russian platoon commander also surrendered, providing valuable intelligence information.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 23, 2026 at 6:44 AM

Kharkiv Oblast:

In Kharkiv region, Russians attacked an evacuation car. Volunteer Denis “Hollander” Khristov, who evacuates civilians from frontline areas, was injured

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 23, 2026 at 10:05 AM

“I’m returning on my own. If there are no leaks on the way to Kharkiv, I’ll write my standard message to the UAV pilots. Not today, bastards. Stay in touch.”

— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 23, 2026 at 10:05 AM

Russia:

🚨Russian economic collapse: majority of Russian companies now seeing profit loss, investment cuts, and layoffs.

There’s a liquidity crisis, widespread non-payments, and dramatically rising costs, all at once.

The impact is growing as the whole system crumbles under the stress.

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— Maria Drutska (@mariadrutska.bsky.social) February 23, 2026 at 2:03 AM

The Udmurt Republic, Russia:

🥳Important strike on Iskander/Oreshnik missile production plant verified!

The electroplating and stamping shop in the Votkinsky plant was likely completely destroyed, based on satellite photos and expert analysis.

This may mean a lot less ballistic missiles hitting Ukraine.🤞

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— Maria Drutska (@mariadrutska.bsky.social) February 23, 2026 at 3:25 AM

Perm Krai, Russia:

Superb long range strike by a Ukrainian Liutyi drone on one of fascist Russia’s largest methanol producers, Metafrax Chemicals, in Gubakha, Perm Krai about 1,600 km from Ukraine.

Two workshops, a storage tank and a distillation column were damaged in the attack.

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— Euan MacDonald (@euanmacdonald.bsky.social) February 23, 2026 at 2:39 PM

The Republic of Tartarstan, Russia:

🔥At night, the Russian oil pumping station Druzhba-1 at Kaleikino was attacked. A large 60-meter-diameter oil storage tank is burning. The facility is located about 1,100 km from the front line.

The Druzhba-1 station at Kaleikino is a major hub of the Druzhba oil pipeline system.

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— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) February 23, 2026 at 5:18 AM

That’s enough for tonight.

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Saturday lunch for the displaced cats and dogs in Izium, eastern Ukraine. Izium was liberated in 2022 but remains very close to the frontline with drone attacks frequent. We have a number of feeding stations here, and the team delivers to residents taking care of dozens of pets.

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— Nate Mook (@natemook.bsky.social) February 21, 2026 at 11:48 AM

Open thread!

The Circumstances of the Terrorist Attack Are Now Being Fully Analyzed. The Attack Was Organized by Russia – Address by the President

22 February 2026 – 20:23

I wish you health, fellow Ukrainians!

Today there were several reports by the Ministry of Internal Affairs – Minister Ihor Klymenko and other law enforcement officials – on the investigation of the terrorist attack in Lviv. It is difficult to classify it otherwise – it was indeed a terrorist attack, cynical and brutal. There were two explosions, and the second occurred after emergency services had arrived at the scene. Twenty-five people were injured. Tragically, one person – a 23-year-old police officer – was killed. My condolences to her family and loved ones. All the injured are receiving assistance. Some are in serious condition, and doctors are doing everything possible to save lives.

The circumstances of this terrorist attack are now being fully analyzed. Many facts have already been established. The perpetrators were recruited via Telegram. The attack was organized by Russia. The Ministry of Internal Affairs, the National Police, and the Security Service of Ukraine will present further details to the public. Today I also instructed that measures and response procedures be developed to prevent similar crimes. Our law enforcement agencies already have certain experience in countering this. Dozens of similar situations have been prevented. Ukrainian law enforcement officials constantly counter such recruitment efforts.

More activity and greater involvement are needed from communities themselves, local leaders, and government institutions – everyone – to reduce Russia’s ability to organize terrorist attacks and sabotage in Ukraine’s rear at all levels. We have intelligence indicating that the Russians intend to continue carrying out such actions – in effect, attacks on Ukrainians. We must strengthen protection for our people.

Today, during the coordination call, we once again discussed with regional representatives Russia’s new tactic of massive strikes, where logistics facilities – primarily the railway – as well as water supply infrastructure are increasingly becoming targets. It is very important that this threat be understood by everyone at the local level and that protection measures be implemented accordingly.

Air defense, the Ministry of Defense, and government structures have also received the necessary tasks. I expect coordinated and truly prompt work at all levels. Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense together with our military must also strengthen protection against Russian drones in border areas, where attacks against civilian vehicles, first responders, and our repair crews are increasing. The experience of our frontline regions must be effectively extended to the Sumy region and also to the Chernihiv region.

One more point. It is worth recognizing our warriors who this week increased the distance and extended the range of our Ukrainian precision. Ukraine is striking increasingly distant Russian weapons production facilities, and we must be grateful – grateful to everyone in Ukraine who works toward this, who achieves such results, and does so in the combat use of our Ukrainian missiles and our deep strikes. Based on the results of this week, I would like to commend the warriors of the 19th Missile Brigade “Saint Varvara” and the “Balista” unit of the Special Operations Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Thank you, warriors!

Thank you to everyone who is fighting for Ukraine, defending Ukrainians, and giving all of us in the country faith that we will end this war with dignity. Peace must prevail.

Glory to Ukraine!

Georgia:

“We won’t stop until we prevail.”

Students are marching in Tbilisi, Georgia, demanding university autonomy and protesting Georgian Dream’s unconstitutional interference in how many students state universities can admit and which academic fields they are allowed to teach.

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— Rusudan Djakeli (@rusudandjakeli.bsky.social) February 22, 2026 at 11:25 AM

Student march against education “reforms” that aim to eliminate organizing possibilities for dissent.

Day 452 of #GeorgiaProtests

📷 MOSE

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— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) February 22, 2026 at 1:45 PM

Students continue to protest daily in Georgia. This is now in front of Ilia State University — the only state university openly critical of the Georgian Dream regime — which is facing effective dismantling after being stripped down to just two remaining academic fields.

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— Rusudan Djakeli (@rusudandjakeli.bsky.social) February 22, 2026 at 10:52 AM

MEP Nacho Sánchez Amor tells @publikage.bsky.social that the EU has failed to respond adequately to violations of citizens’ rights in Georgia. He says suspending visa-free travel for holders of diplomatic passports is “useless.”

He also criticizes some EU ambassadors.

Watch the full comment 👇

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— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) February 22, 2026 at 3:54 AM

It was my pleasure to discuss the autocratic crackdown in Georgia (before the late January package) with BCSP and Mr. Srdjan Cvijic, especially in the light of parallels and potential warnings to Serbia.

Available now on the YouTube link below👇🏻

m.youtube.com/watch?v=6EEh…

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— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) February 22, 2026 at 5:29 AM

South Korea:

The Russian embassy in Seoul has hung a 12-meter banner reading “Victory will be ours” with a Russian tricolor and ignored a South Korean request to remove it. Seoul cannot take it down by force due to the Vienna Convention.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 22, 2026 at 1:09 PM

Hungary:

Hungary will block the EU’s 20th sanctions package tomorrow FM Szijjarto said. No decisions important to Kyiv will advance until Ukraine resumes oil transit through Druzhba he added.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 22, 2026 at 6:27 AM

The EU:

The EU is developing low-cost interceptor drones quickly.

Germany, France, Italy, Poland, and the UK are establishing drone production after many overflights by “unknown” drones in the EU last year exposed a gap.

Good idea since Russian hybrid warfare will likely increase.

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— Maria Drutska (@mariadrutska.bsky.social) February 22, 2026 at 2:07 AM

The US:

🤔Anyone else see a pattern here?

🔹Russia is publicly trying to bribe the US with a $14T economic deal if sanctions are lifted
🔹Russia and the US are discussing reactivating the Nordstream pipeline to Germany, under US control
🔹The US is trying to scale NATO back dramatically

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— Maria Drutska (@mariadrutska.bsky.social) February 22, 2026 at 3:23 AM

“He’s always been honest with me. I get criticized for saying it but it’s true. I got criticized for meeting him eight times. But how do you make a deal if you don’t know anything about the other person?” Witkoff said about Putin.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 22, 2026 at 3:10 AM

Witkoff on Russian-Ukraine war: “It really is a silly war. And they’re fighting over this territory. Everyone throws the word “dignity” around, but what does dignity get you if you have that amount of killing”

Oh, you little bothsidist shit! Silly war? Tell that to the invaders. Go on,

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 22, 2026 at 7:41 AM

tell them, why don’t you? No, you say “Silly war,” but what you really mean is “Silly resistance.”

And what does dignity give us? Our future. We gain a dignified peace, and it will last. Without it, we will all die in occupied Ukraine in FSB basements and torture chambers.

— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 22, 2026 at 7:41 AM

Washington 💙💛

Not all hope is lost ❤️‍🩹

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 22, 2026 at 3:57 PM

Back to Ukraine:

Here’s some of tonight’s outgoing Ukrainian fires:

Right now Russian sources report around 210 Ukrainian drones and 5 jet-powered UAVs in the air across several regions DroneBomber says.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 22, 2026 at 2:33 PM

Air defense forces repelling a Russian combined attack during the night of February 22, 2026.

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— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) February 22, 2026 at 9:38 AM

​Sky News: Mr. Mayor, do you trust President Trump?

Kyiv Mayor Klitschko: [Sighs and laughs]

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 22, 2026 at 9:48 AM

Last night wasn’t calm in Ukraine again as russians fired hundreds of drones and tens of missiles against Kyiv, Odesa, Poltava & Kirovohrad regions.

Also, they damaged the premises of the American food company Mondelez. That’s all you need to know abt “peace through business.”

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— Olena Halushka (@halushka.bsky.social) February 22, 2026 at 4:13 AM

“I believe that Putin has already started it. The question is how much territory he will be able to seize and how to stop him… Russia wants to impose on the world a different way of life and change the lives people have chosen for themselves.”

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— Andy Scollick (@andyscollick.bsky.social) February 22, 2026 at 5:27 PM

From The BBC: (emphasis mine)

Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky continues to send out a firm message of defiance.

When we met this weekend in the government headquarters in Kyiv, he said that far from losing, Ukraine would end the war victorious. He was firmly against paying the price for a ceasefire deal demanded by President Vladimir Putin, which is withdrawing from strategic ground that Russia has failed to capture despite sacrificing tens of thousands of soldiers.

Putin, Zelensky told me, has already started World War Three, and the only answer was intense military and economic pressure to force him to step back.

“I believe that Putin has already started it. The question is how much territory he will be able to seize and how to stop him… Russia wants to impose on the world a different way of life and change the lives people have chosen for themselves.”

What about Russia’s demand for Ukraine to hand over the 20% of the eastern region of Donetsk that it still holds – a line of towns Ukraine calls “fortress cities” – as well as more land in the southern regions of Kherson and Zaporizhzhia? Isn’t that, I asked, a reasonable request if it produces a ceasefire?

“I see this differently. I don’t look at it simply as land. I see it as abandonment – weakening our positions, abandoning hundreds of thousands of our people who live there. That is how I see it. And I am sure that this ‘withdrawal’ would divide our society.”

But isn’t it a good price to pay if that satisfies President Putin? Do you think it would satisfy him?

“It would probably satisfy him for a while… he needs a pause… but once he recovers, our European partners say it could take three to five years. In my opinion, he could recover in no more than a couple of years. Where would he go next? We do not know, but that he would want to continue [the war] is a fact.”

US President Donald Trump said on the eve of the most recent ceasefire talks in Geneva that “Ukraine better come to the table fast”.

He continues to default to putting more pressure on Ukraine than on Russia.

Western diplomats have indicated since last summer that Trump agrees with Putin that territorial concessions from Ukraine to Russia are the key to the ceasefire Trump wants, ideally before this coming summer.

Plenty of analysts outside the White House also judge that Ukraine cannot win the war and, without making concessions to Moscow, will lose it.

I asked Zelensky whether Trump and the others had a point.

“Where are you now?” Zelensky asked in return. “Today you are in Kyiv, you are in the capital of our homeland, you are in Ukraine. I am very grateful for this. Will we lose? Of course not, because we are fighting for Ukraine’s independence.”

Zelensky has often said that Ukraine can win, but what would victory look like?

Of course, he said, victory meant restoring normal lives for Ukrainians and ending the killing. But the wider view of victory he presented was all about a global threat that he says comes from Putin.

“I believe that stopping Putin today and preventing him from occupying Ukraine is a victory for the whole world. Because Putin will not stop at Ukraine.”

You are not saying that victory is getting all the land back, are you?

“We’ll do it. That is absolutely clear. It is only a matter of time. To do it today would mean losing a huge number of people – millions of people – because the [Russian] army is large, and we understand the cost of such steps. You would not have enough people, you would be losing them. And what is land without people? Honestly, nothing.”

“And we also don’t have enough weapons. That depends not just on us, but on our partners. So as of now that’s not possible but returning to the just borders of 1991 [the year Ukraine declared its independence, precipitating the final collapse of the Soviet Union] without a doubt, is not only a victory, it’s justice. Ukraine’s victory is the preservation of our independence, and a victory of justice for the whole world is the return of all our lands.”

More at the link.

The framing of the questions is entirely within how Russia has shaped the information environment.

Fiber optic drones found a large Russian military logistics warehouse and destroyed it from the inside.

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— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) February 22, 2026 at 9:33 AM

Oryx data as of January 1 shows confirmed Russian equipment losses far exceed Ukraine’s in most categories: 6,374 IFVs vs 1,539, 4,331 tanks vs 1,386, 4,484 vehicles vs 1,308. Ukraine has higher losses in APCs (1,280 vs 720) and armored cars (1,524 vs 413).

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 22, 2026 at 6:42 AM

Russian advances rank among the slowest in modern warfare a Sunday Times chart shows. Chasiv Yar 14 m/day, Kupyansk 23 m/day, Pokrovsk 70 m/day. Ukraine’s Kharkiv offensive hit 7,400 m/day in 2022.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 22, 2026 at 6:31 AM

Lviv:

Police released footage of the suspect planting explosives in a trash bin in Lviv. The 33-year-old from Rivne region was caught near the border. She acted on orders from a Russian intelligence handler.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 22, 2026 at 7:18 AM

UPD on the overnight terrorist attack in Lviv. Police responded to a break-in call around 1 AM when multiple explosions went off. Twenty-four people were injured. A 23-year-old policewoman was killed. Prosecutors opened a terrorism investigation.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 22, 2026 at 3:33 AM

Kyiv Oblast:

As of now, 15 people are confirmed injured, including 4 children, – the Regional Military Administration.

The highest number of casualties is in the Fastiv district of the Kyiv region.

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— Maria Drutska (@mariadrutska.bsky.social) February 22, 2026 at 7:43 AM

Destruction in Sofiivska Borshchahivka, Kyiv region, following Russia’s massive attack.

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— Maria Drutska (@mariadrutska.bsky.social) February 22, 2026 at 7:20 AM

Footage from the village of Putrivka in Kyiv region, where a man was killed in a russian attack last night.

Rescuers reported that 8 people, including a child, were pulled alive from the rubble. 1 man died from his injuries on the way to the hospital.

It was their homes…

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 22, 2026 at 8:59 AM

South West Kyiv, about 10 enormous explosions and lots of shaheds. Dogs under my bed

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— Мартен Шонгейм 🇺🇦 🇳🇱 (@maaartens.bsky.social) February 21, 2026 at 11:21 PM

‘Russia protects Christianity,’ they say.
Kyiv region after last night’s Russian attack 👇

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 22, 2026 at 7:30 AM

Sumy Oblast:

Russians killed a married couple and two brothers by striking an ambulance with a drone in the Sumy region.

🕯️ Oleksandr Shchepetkov, 17, an 11th‑grade student
🕯️ His brother, Ivan Shchepetkov, 24
🕯️ Khrystyna Slavska, 25, paramedic
🕯️ Her husband, Serhii Slavskyi, 32, community police officer

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 22, 2026 at 8:54 AM

On Feb 21, Russians dropped an explosive from a drone on the outskirts of the Znob‑Novhorodske community. The blast wounded the two brothers. Minutes later medical team arrived—paramedic Khrystyna Slavska and driver Serhii Hloba.

The injured were moved to a safer location for urgent care

— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 22, 2026 at 8:54 AM

Community police officer Captain Serhii Slavskyi also came to assist. Together with the medics, he helped stabilize the brothers.

It was decided to transport them to the district center of Shostka. The police officer accompanied the ambulance for protection.

— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 22, 2026 at 8:54 AM

While driving along highway T‑1908 near the village of Chyhyn, the ambulance was attacked by a Russian drone and caught fire.

…Only the driver survived. He is now in hospital with severe burns.

— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 22, 2026 at 8:54 AM

Trostianets, Sumy Oblast:

Russia hit a Mondelez factory in Trostianets, one of the first major US investments in Ukraine FM Sybiha said. Moscow can’t push economic ties with the US while bombing American businesses in Ukraine he added.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 22, 2026 at 4:14 AM

Russian occupied Mariupol:

Once again, FP-2 is accompanied by a second FP-2 flying at a distance behind it to capture proper battle damage assessment (BDA) footage.

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— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) February 22, 2026 at 3:44 AM

The Kursk and northern Slobozhansk axes:

Ukrainian border guards used drones on the Kursk and northern Slobozhansk axes to destroy 4 vehicles, 9 shelters, 2 comms antennas, a field ammo dump, a Murom-M system and several Russian drones hidden in a treeline.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 22, 2026 at 11:19 AM

The Pokrovsk front:

Russians keep pushing north of Pokrovsk the Airborne Forces report. A sabotage group moved in cells of 2-3 toward farm buildings. Drone recon spotted them and 155mm artillery hit them before they reached their target.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 22, 2026 at 10:20 AM

Russian occupied Luhansk:

The overnight strike on the Luhansk oil depot.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 22, 2026 at 3:24 AM

The Udmurt Republic, Russia:

Result of the Ukrainian Flamingo missile strike on the Iskanderov plant in russian Votkinsk: a massive hole torn through the roof of one of the workshops.

By Ukrainian OSINT group Cyber Boroshno.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 22, 2026 at 11:36 AM

Belgorod Oblast, Russia:

The russian city of Belgorod had some explosions, after which the power went out.

Now its the city of Blackgorod 👀

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 22, 2026 at 4:42 PM

Very dense air defence activity in Belgorod, Russia.

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— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) February 22, 2026 at 6:55 PM

Pskov Oblast, Russia:

Satellite images show more than one tank burned at the Velikie Luki oil depot in Pskov after the February 19 drone strike, not one as the governor claimed journalist Mark Krutov reports. The SBU’s Alpha unit reportedly carried out the attack.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 22, 2026 at 8:49 AM

Samara Oblast, Russia:

The February 21 overnight strike hit two stabilization columns at the Neftegorsk gas plant, core processing units Exilenova+ reports. This disrupts the cycle and means a long recovery. The fire is contained but still burning.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 22, 2026 at 7:14 AM

The Republic of Tatarstan, Russia:

There are reports of an attack in Almetyevsk, Tatarstan, russia.

Something is burning very nicely there 👀🔥

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 22, 2026 at 8:25 PM

That’s enough for tonight.

Your daily Patron!

There are no new Patron skeets or videos today.

Here is some adjacent material.

Cats have become an essential comfort for Ukrainian soldiers on the front lines.

United 24 Media / Instagram

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— Eugene McParland 🇺🇦 (@eugenemcparland.bsky.social) February 18, 2026 at 10:03 AM

Open thread!

Georgia:

Day 450 of daily, uninterrupted protests in Georgia.

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— Rusudan Djakeli (@rusudandjakeli.bsky.social) February 20, 2026 at 1:05 PM

Day 450 of #GeorgiaProtests

Ivanishvili in a garbage bin.

Oil, canvas.

📷 A Little Georgian Warrior

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— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) February 20, 2026 at 3:53 PM

My God! No robust security apparatus, no economic self-sufficiency, no ideology and now even more limited state assistance too?

And they want to sprint into a consolidated dictatorship. 1/2
jam-news.net/georgia-to-l…

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— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) February 20, 2026 at 11:29 AM

It’s honestly very embarrassing… or would be, if it weren’t a Kremlin puppets vs barehanded people situation. 2/2.

— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) February 20, 2026 at 11:29 AM

NATO:

It’s not that the US wants to leave NATO, they just want to change it into the Warsaw Pact

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— Piero Castellano 🇪🇺 (@pierocastellano.com) February 20, 2026 at 3:29 AM

From Politico:

BRUSSELS — U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration has threatened to retaliate against European countries if the EU favors domestic weapons-makers in a drive to rearm the continent.

The U.S. Department of Defense objected to any EU effort to limit American arms-manufacturers’ access to the European market and warned that would trigger a reciprocal response.

The administration made the previously unreported remarks in a contribution to a European Commission consultation earlier this month, after the EU’s executive branch requested feedback from governments and industry on European weapons procurement rules.

“The United States strongly opposes any changes to the Directive that would limit U.S. industry’s ability to support or otherwise participate in EU member state national defense procurements,” the U.S. administration wrote ahead of a planned update of EU defense procurement laws.

“Protectionist and exclusionary policies that strong-arm American companies out of the market — when Europe’s largest defense firms continue to greatly benefit from market access in the United States — are the wrong course of action,” it added.

Washington’s comments highlight a paradox in the U.S. approach to Europe: While the Trump administration has repeatedly told Europeans that it wants them to shoulder the bulk of the continent’s conventional defense, the U.S. doesn’t want that to come at the expense of American defense firms.

POLITICO previously reported that U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau slammed European NATO allies for prioritizing their own defense industry over American arms suppliers during a closed-door meeting in December. The State Department co-signed the Trump administration’s contribution to the Commission’s survey.

Over the past few years, the European Commission has been trying to increase the share of European weaponry in the bloc’s arsenals and procurement contracts while it braces for potential conflict with Russia. For decades, the continent has heavily relied on American military equipment, ranging from F-35 fighter jets to HIMARS artillery systems and Patriot air defenses. Almost two-thirds of the bloc’s imported weapons are supplied by the U.S.

Such forceful pushback from the Trump administration also threatens to complicate any broader Buy European industrial effort from the Commission. It will test how far European countries are willing to go in becoming more independent from the U.S., which has become an increasingly unreliable partner in the age of Trump.

The EU’s executive branch is expected to present an update of the 2009 procurement directive in the third quarter, amid a wider, controversial push for more Buy European rules. It’s still unclear whether the new text will include binding rules to favor homegrown manufacturers.

The EU is already favoring local companies in projects such as the €150 billion loans-for-weapons SAFE program and for arms purchases that Ukraine can make with the recently agreed €90 billion loan to Kyiv. EU money can be used to purchase military equipment only if at least 65 percent of the gear’s value is sourced in Europe.

The Pentagon warned in its contribution that any move to include a strong Buy European clause in the future procurement legislation would trigger retaliation from the U.S.

“If European preference measures were implemented in member states’ national procurement laws, the United States would likely review all existing blanket waivers and exceptions to the ‘Buy American’ laws provided under or made in association with these our [Reciprocal Defense Procurement Agreements],” the Department of Defense wrote.

Hungary:

In case anyone was wondering, yes Viktor Orban is still an asshole.

Hungary is trying to block a €90B loan to Ukraine from the EU after previously agreeing to it. Seems like Orban’s boss in Moscow is trying to cause as much damage as he can before Orban is voted out in April.

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— Maria Drutska (@mariadrutska.bsky.social) February 20, 2026 at 12:20 PM

Hungary’s FM Szijjarto claims Ukraine is not defending Europe since NATO does that. Russia has not attacked any EU member state. “This is not our war” he says.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 20, 2026 at 6:01 AM

Belarus:

Russian hybrid warfare: Belarus conducts large-scale rapid mobilization call-up.

These sudden, urgent, mass drills violate Belarusian law and are being done on a far larger scale than previously.

Likely an intimidation tactic directed at NATO to benefit Russia in negotiations.

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— Maria Drutska (@mariadrutska.bsky.social) February 20, 2026 at 2:07 AM

Angola:

Bento Adriano Mendes, an Angolan entrepreneur, donated over 80 electric generators to Ukraine

Ukraine’s top hospital publicly thanked the donor, noting that such support is “extremely important” given Russian attacks on energy infrastructure
euromaidanpress.com/2026/02/19/u…

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— Euromaidan Press (@euromaidanpress.bsky.social) February 18, 2026 at 7:08 PM

From EuroMaidan Press:

Angolan citizen Bento Adriano Mendes, founder and director of BAM-86, Comércio e Serviços (LDA), has donated over 80 electric generators to Ukraine, as per UkrInform. The country has suffered from over 257 Russian strikes on energy infrastructure since the start of the cold season.

Russian attacks disrupt hospital operations, prevent people with illnesses from using elevators, and cut off oxygen supply to medical equipment.

At the same time, Russia is bombing evacuation trains in an attempt to provoke protests in major cities, increase pressure on the authorities, and force Ukraine to capitulate.

“By 31 January 2025, the Angolan businessman delivered 75 generators to Ukraine, valued at approximately €37,000,”says Ukrainian Ambassador to Angola Andrii Kasianov.

Additionally, 10 generators were provided to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, and on 12 February 2026, with support from the Ukrainian Embassy in Angola, two more generators were delivered to the M.M. Amosov National Institute of Cardiovascular Surgery.

“Moreover, the same Angolan citizen purchased two additional generators and arranged their delivery to the medical facility,” emphasized Kasianov.

The equipment ensures the uninterrupted operation of surgical and laboratory units, as well as the protection of shelters during air raids.

“Thus, this assistance directly contributes to preserving the life and health of Ukrainian citizens,” the ambassador adds.

More at the link.

Japan:

Sanae Takaichi, PM of Japan:

It is essential to bring an end to Russia’s aggression against Ukraine as soon as possible. To that end, Japan will continue to support Ukraine in close coordination with like-minded countries, while respecting Ukraine’s wishes to the greatest extent possible.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 20, 2026 at 8:15 AM

Poland:

Poland has officially left the Ottawa Convention banning anti-personnel mines. The country will start producing its own and can mine its eastern border within 48 hours if needed PM Tusk said.

apnews.com/article/pola…

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 20, 2026 at 8:50 AM

Moldova:

Ukraine’s SBU and police with Moldovan partners busted a Russian hit squad planning assassinations of journalists, military officers and public figures. Agents were split into surveillance and kill teams. Russia offered up to $100,000 per target.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 20, 2026 at 3:26 AM

Germany:

Merz on Ukraine: “First, allow me to speak on behalf of CDU Germany: we stand firmly at the side of the Ukrainian people, without any ‘ifs’ and ‘buts’!

Dear friends, we will never come to terms with how a criminal Russian regime is systematically waging war against the civilian

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 20, 2026 at 8:59 AM

population of this country, including the elderly, women, and children, with such cruelty that it shatters communities and sows fear in every street and home.

The whole affair is garnished with nearly unbearable Nazi propaganda against the Ukrainian people –

— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 20, 2026 at 8:59 AM

propaganda that seeks to dehumanize them: a people that has suffered under German and Russian domination to such an extent that it is hardly matched by any other nation in the world.

This political rhetoric will at any time be met with our decisive contradiction.”

— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 20, 2026 at 8:59 AM

“I don’t believe in the current negotiations – the war in Ukraine will end only when one of the sides is exhausted.” – German Chancellor Merz.

— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 19, 2026 at 9:08 AM

Sweden:

Reuters reports that Sweden has announced $1.42 billion in military aid to Ukraine, which will include air defense systems, UAVs, and long-range missiles.

www.reuters.com/business/aer…

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 19, 2026 at 4:25 PM

The US:

Witkoff is very unpopular in Ukraine. Very.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 19, 2026 at 10:09 AM

A Texas investor with ties to the Trump family, Gentry Beach, signed a deal last fall with Russian energy giant Novatek to develop natural gas in Alaska — amid ongoing Ukraine war and sanctions.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 20, 2026 at 9:48 AM

The NYT reports this as part of broader Kremlin efforts to offer business opportunities to Trump, who has touted “tremendous” post-war deals with Russia.

— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 20, 2026 at 9:48 AM

From The Economist:

Over the past year two parallel sets of talks have been held about ending the war in Ukraine. American-led negotiations with Russia have produced proposal after proposal but no agreement on territory or security guarantees. Meanwhile, other envoys from the Kremlin and the White House have been discussing business. Volodymyr Zelensky, citing Ukrainian intelligence, says Russia has promised deals worth $12trn to America in return for sanctions relief; one insider reckons a package has already been agreed on. In Europe fears are rising that President Donald Trump could force Ukraine into crippling concessions by June—his latest deadline for peace—to chase gold in Russia.

Promises of enrichment have long lain at the heart of Vladimir Putin’s strategy. Before the Russian president met Mr Trump in August, The Economist understands, a note was drafted for Russia’s National Security Council explaining how to sell “the Greatest Deal” to Mr Trump. Since last April Kirill Dmitriev, who runs a Russian state fund, has met Steve Witkoff, Mr Trump’s special envoy, at least nine times. Individuals close to the Trump family have been in talks to acquire stakes in Russian energy assets. America has been offered deals for Arctic oil and gas, rare-earth mines, a nuclear-powered data centre and a tunnel under the Bering Strait. Both sides stand to benefit. Russia is suffering from low oil prices and stricter sanctions. America’s president wants results before the November midterm elections.

The idea of America winning a $12trn prize—equivalent to six times Russia’s annual economic output—is plainly hyperbole designed to please Mr Trump. What might the real reward for peacemaking be? To distinguish the treasure from the trap, we spoke to dozens of former officials, intelligence professionals, energy executives and corporate confidants. Optimists argue that Russia’s cheap energy, vital minerals and 145m consumers could be a huge boon to Western firms. Our analysis, however, suggests that the available riches are a small fraction of what the Kremlin is touting. Worse, China is already beating America to those prizes that are on offer.

What most excites Mr Trump’s envoys, therefore, is the potential for American firms to take stakes in mega-projects that could transform the world’s commodity markets. Russia’s National Security Council document describes its “treasure trove of Arctic and northern resources” that “a dozen sovereign and private funds from the usa and other currently hostile countries” would rush to exploit. “Everyone”, it adds, “will earn a lot of money.” Naturally, “Presidents Putin and Trump could potentially receive Nobel Prizes.”

A White House that is eager to end the war in Ukraine and enrich Americans could hardly fail to see the attractions of this prospectus. But how big would the peace dividend actually be?

Individuals close to the White House might nevertheless secure lucrative deals for themselves. One Washington insider says some have talked with Kremlin envoys about board seats at Russian companies. New property developments, and the rents from utility assets such as pipelines, could line a few more pockets. Mr Dmitriev has form in such attempts to sway American officials. A report on Russian espionage, prepared in 2020 by the American Senate’s intelligence committee, counts 152 references to him, mostly concerning efforts to co-opt people close to Mr Trump.

Should the White House take the bait, the rest of America will wait in vain for a windfall as political costs mount. Congressional hawks would loathe it if a reopened Russia started rewarding its allies, particularly China. More trade, finance and investment would soon allow Russia’s economy to recover, paving the way for the next war. A president with America’s interests at heart would look at Mr Putin’s $12trn offer with a gimlet eye—and walk away.

More at the link.

NORAD intercepted Russian aircraft near Alaska including two Tu-95 bombers, two Su-35S fighters and an A-50 command plane. The US scrambled F-16s, F-35s, an E-3 radar plane and KC-135 tankers. The Russians did not enter US airspace.

www.norad.mil/Newsroom/Pre…

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 20, 2026 at 9:34 AM

Back to Ukraine.

Today is the Day of the Heroes of the Heavenly Hundred. We honor those who gave their lives so that we could live as a free nation.

​In February 2014, when it became clear that the Revolution of Dignity would prevail, Putin and Yanukovych orchestrated a brutal massacre in

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 20, 2026 at 9:38 AM

Mariinsky Park that culminated in the shootings on Instytutska Street on February 20. That very same day, Putin launched the occupation of Crimea.

​Today, we remember the first heroes who gave their lives for our freedom; today, this war reaches its 12-year mark.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 20, 2026 at 9:38 AM

There is something diabolical about bombing people at five in the morning. If you think you’ve had bad wake‑ups in your life, trust me, nothing compares to the horror and confusion of waking to the deafening boom of an exploding missile.

I fucking hate russia!

— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 19, 2026 at 10:14 PM

ZSU-23-4M1-A1 Shilka air defense system, upgraded by Come Back Alive Foundation, with four Shahed kill marks on its hull, in service with Khartia Brigade.

As part of the project, the volunteer foundation modernized 16 outdated Shilka systems to better meet modern battlefield requirements.

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— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) February 20, 2026 at 12:53 PM

An amazing video capturing the moment FP-2 with a 60kg warhead hits Russian Tor filmed by the camera of another FP-2 nearby.

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— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) February 20, 2026 at 5:30 AM

Here’s some of tonight’s outgoing Ukrainian fires:

Southern Russia is facing one of its heaviest drone attacks yet with some 105 drones, 15 jet UAVs and 5 aerostats reported in the air DroneBomber says citing Russian monitoring channels.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 20, 2026 at 1:39 PM

Ukrainian firm STETMAN plans to launch its first test satellite this fall as part of an EW-resistant military network at 550 km orbit. The constellation will grow to 120 satellites via SpaceX from 2027 with up to 50,000 terminals for Ukraine’s military to reduce Starlink dependence.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 20, 2026 at 12:32 PM

Zelenskyy to Kyodo News: What does Russia offer us as a compromise? What are they ready to do? They said, “We are ready not to occupy your other regions”. But it is terrorism. Even that language, it is terrorism. “I’m ready not to kill you – give us everything”.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 20, 2026 at 9:42 AM

What does it mean? It’s not a compromise. This is an ultimatum. That’s why I said: We are ready for compromises that respect Ukrainian sovereignty and territorial integrity, our army, our people, and our children. But we are not ready for ultimatums.

— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 20, 2026 at 9:42 AM

Here’s the full video of the interview:

Lozova, Kharkiv Oblast:

Nearly 16,000 households left without heat after russian attack on Lozova in Kharkiv region — Mayor Serhiy Zelenskyi

“In addition, due to the shutdown of the city’s largest boiler plant, Lozova has also been left without water,” the mayor reported.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 19, 2026 at 7:40 AM

Kharkiv Oblast:

Nearly 740 Russian attacks on Kharkiv region since the start of 2026

“Kharkiv region remains under relentless Russian fire. The enemy mercilessly targets civilians: half of the strikes have been carried out with drones. Tragically,

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 19, 2026 at 7:37 AM

62 people have already been killed in the region this year, including 5 children. More than 1,200 civilian sites have been damaged,” Ukraine’s Minister of Internal Affairs, Ihor Klymenko.

— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 19, 2026 at 7:37 AM

Kramatorsk, Donetsk Oblast:

Kramatorsk through the lens of Yan Dobronosov 💔

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 19, 2026 at 8:14 AM

Malynivka, Kharkiv Oblast:

In Malynivka, Kharkiv region, the bodies of two more victims have been found under the rubble of a warehouse building‼️

As of now, the death toll from the Russian attack has risen to three people, while two others have been injured.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 20, 2026 at 1:19 PM

Zaporizhzhia Oblast:

🔥Tonight, the USF destroyed three Russian Tor air defense systems. All three Tor systems are in the in the Zaporizhzhia region. 20.02.26

Strikes were carried out using FP-2 guided strike drones equipped with 60kg warheads.

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— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) February 20, 2026 at 5:26 AM

Russian Su-34 down on the southern axis, 19.02.26 ✈️🔥

Russian war propaganda bloggers confirm.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) February 20, 2026 at 10:43 AM

Huilaipole, Zaporizhzhia Oblast:

A Ukrainian ground drone with an M2 Browning takes out a Russian occupier in close urban combat. Footage from the 411th Yastryby regiment on the Huliaipole front.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 20, 2026 at 3:44 AM

Russian occupied Crimea:

What’s left of a Russian BK-16 landing craft near Crimea after a strike by HUR’s Phantoms unit last week.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 20, 2026 at 9:42 AM

Kupyansk, Kharkiv Oblast:

Ukrainian forces pushed forward in central Kupiansk ISW reports. Russians attacked near the city and surrounding villages on February 18-19. Ukrainian counterattacks also reported on the southern Slobozhansk front near Vovchanski Khutory.

understandingwar.org/research/rus…

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 20, 2026 at 7:32 AM

Dnipropetrovsk Oblast:

The spokesperson for the Southern Defense Forces says that the Armed Forces of Ukraine have begun counterattacks to halt the Russian advance toward the Dnipropetrovsk region.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 19, 2026 at 1:33 PM

Russia:

🚨Slovakia gives up on Russian oil, switches to other sources.

Indian purchases of Russian oil have also dropped dramatically, now at their lowest since 2022.

As buyers keep finding other sources, Russia’s oil export and revenue forecasts are being reduced to ashes.🛢️📉🔥

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— Maria Drutska (@mariadrutska.bsky.social) February 19, 2026 at 2:05 AM

🚨Russian oil production will fall further as oil well drilling drops.

Drilling cuts started in later 2025, and they will really hit production numbers in Q2 and Q3 of 2026.

Less oil to sell, less buyers to sell that oil to, and lower sales prices makes Russian budget crumble.

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— Maria Drutska (@mariadrutska.bsky.social) February 19, 2026 at 3:27 AM

📉Russian oil and gas revenue crumbling fast: February will be HALF the revenue of a year ago.

As India replaces Russian oil with Saudi Arabian and the ruble stays high, Russian income is getting devastated.

And it will get worse from here as production drops further.📉🫟

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— Maria Drutska (@mariadrutska.bsky.social) February 20, 2026 at 3:27 AM

Votkinsk, the Udmurt Republic, Russia:

By the way, this is also the factory where “Oreshnik” is assembled.

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— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) February 20, 2026 at 4:40 PM

Russians apparently don’t mind what’s exploding around them as long as the vodka is flowing.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 20, 2026 at 4:58 PM

Rostov Oblast, Russia:

Explosion reported near a thermal power plant in Rostov right now.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 20, 2026 at 2:34 PM

Krasnodar Krai, Russia:

Air defenses engaging over Krasnodar right now. Volgograd and Saratov airports have restricted flights Rosaviatsia reports.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 20, 2026 at 1:34 PM

Satellite imagery reveals the damage from the Unmanned Systems Forces strike on the Ilsky refinery overnight February 17. An oil tank and technical overpass were hit.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 20, 2026 at 12:02 PM

New high-quality imagery of the Tamanneftegaz oil terminal strike. One tank destroyed, one burned out, a third damaged.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 20, 2026 at 4:37 AM

Pskov Oblast, Russia:

“Vietnam, run!” – overnight, drones from the Special Operations Center “Alpha” of the Security Service of Ukraine successfully struck the Velikolukskaya oil depot. A large fire broke out at the site. Anti-drone nets had been stretched over the fuel storage tanks, but they did not help.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) February 19, 2026 at 5:25 AM

That’s enough for tonight.

Your daily Patron!

There are no new Patron skeets or videos today.

Here is some adjacent material.

“What cat were you provided with in the Armed Forces of Ukraine?”

Ukrainian Defenders share photos with their cats on the front line

📷: hermano.dh_ /fanatic_oleg / sylenko_ju / dr_karpiuk /nemetz_82 /leonia_veremeyenko / markus_panda / shwainokaras /viktortrofymenko / stalnytskanata /edelweiss_ua/

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— Anton Gerashchenko (@antongerashchenko.bsky.social) February 16, 2026 at 4:08 AM

Open thread!