Russia targeted critical infrastructure across Ukraine, injured over a dozen civilians

Russian troops have struck critical infrastructure in Sumy, Kherson, and Poltava oblasts over the past day, injuring civilians.

In Kherson Oblast, attacks hit a critical infrastructure facility, residential buildings, and other civilian sites, reported Governor Oleksandr Prokudin on August 4. The assaults resulted in 15 injuries, including one child.

Overnight on August 4, a Russian strike damaged railway infrastructure in Poltava Oblast, causing delays for trains heading towards Kharkiv. The state-owned railway company Ukrzaliznytsia confirmed there were no casualties.

Sumy Oblast also faced drone and artillery attacks, damaging infrastructure and a post office in Manukhivka, as well as a facility in Druzhba, according to Operational Command North. No casualties were reported there.

In Pokrovsk, Donetsk Oblast, one person was killed and three were injured due to Russian attacks, Governor Vadym Filashkin reported.

Additionally, in Kharkiv Oblast, Russian forces used 16 glide bombs, three types of missiles, and one FPV drone, causing damage to civilian infrastructure, said Governor Oleh Syniehubov.

Ukraine received 10 F-16s so far, with more to come by year's end

On July 31, Ukraine received the first 10 of up to 79 F-16 fighter jets, a year after the US approved their supply by European partners. By the end of 2024, Ukraine is expected to receive 20 such aircraft.

The remaining F-16s, promised by a coalition led by Denmark and the Netherlands, will be delivered in stages by 2025, according to The Economist.

Ben Hodges, former commander of US forces in Europe, has criticized the delays, attributing them to a "policy decision" and a shortage of training slots for Ukrainian pilots. Language barriers have also complicated the process. Although Ukraine's pilots are experienced, the F-16s are considerably more advanced than the Soviet-era MiG-29s and Sukhoi-27s they are used to.

Nico Lange, former chief of staff at Germany's Defence Ministry, noted that Russia considers the F-16s a high-value target. Consequently, the aircraft are deployed discreetly in protected locations and with decoys.

Journalists suggest that as the number of F-16s gradually increases, their impact on Ukraine’s defense will take time. Integrating the F-16s into Ukraine’s air defense systems and gaining operational experience will be a complex process, with General Hodges highlighting the challenges of coordinating flights from multiple airfields.

Zelenskyy wants coalition of NATO countries to shoot down missiles over Ukraine

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has directed diplomats to explore forming a coalition of neighboring states to help intercept Russian missiles over Ukrainian territory within the framework of the Ukraine-NATO Council.

Zelenskyy has suggested investigating the feasibility of using combat aircraft from neighboring countries to defend Ukraine against Russian missiles targeting nearby nations, with a particular focus on NATO member countries.

He acknowledged that the proposal might be challenging for partners due to concerns about escalating the conflict but emphasized that discussions are ongoing. Zelenskyy expressed confidence in the Ukraine-NATO Council and has assigned diplomats to work on organizing a meeting to further discuss this initiative.