Belarusian forces and former Wagner Group personnel gather near Belarusian-Ukrainian border

Ukraine's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reported a significant buildup of Belarusian Armed Forces personnel and equipment near the Belarusian-Ukrainian border, allegedly under the guise of military exercises. Additionally, former members of Russia's Wagner Private Military Company (PMC) have been observed in the area. The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry has called on Belarus to refrain from making a tragic mistake under Moscow's influence.

Pope criticizes ban on Russian-backed church in Ukraine

Pope Francis condemned Ukraine's recent decision to ban the activities of the Russian Orthodox Church within its borders, expressing concern about the implications for religious freedom. He emphasized that true prayer is inclusive, praying for all, and stressed that no one should be prevented from praying or have their place of worship taken away. He made a plea for Christian churches to remain untouched, urging continued prayers for an end to the war between Ukraine and Russia.

The Pope's comments came after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed a law on 24 August prohibiting the operations of religious organizations connected to Russia, specifically targeting the Russian Orthodox Church and its affiliates in Ukraine. This decision is part of Ukraine's broader efforts to sever ties with Russia amid ongoing conflict.

During a visit to Italy, President Zelenskyy also met with Pope Francis to discuss the role of the Holy See in supporting a just and lasting peace in Ukraine.

Russia struck Kramatorsk, 4 Reuters employees injured

Four Reuters journalists from Ukraine, the United States, Latvia, and Germany were injured as a result of Russian troops' attack on a hotel in Kramatorsk.

Reuters has confirmed that one member of its team covering the war in Ukraine is missing, and two others have been hospitalized following an attack on the Sapphire Hotel in Kramatorsk. The hotel, where the Reuters crew of six was staying, was struck on Saturday. The news agency released a statement about the incident but has not provided further details about the missing team member. The attack highlights the ongoing dangers faced by journalists covering the conflict in Ukraine.

Russians launch missile strikes on Kharkiv and Chuhuiv

On the morning of 25 August, Russian forces launched missile strikes on Kharkiv and Chuhuiv.

In Kharkiv, explosions were heard throughout the city, prompting Mayor Ihor Terekhov to urge residents to take shelter. A house in the Slobidskyi district caught fire due to the attack, and emergency services responded swiftly. Three people were injured in the city, including a 23-year-old man and a 55-year-old woman.

In Chuhuiv, the missiles hit a residential area, injuring four people, including a 4-year-old child who suffered an acute stress reaction. Fortunately, no hospitalizations were necessary.

The attacks left both cities on edge as they dealt with the damage and injuries.