Russians struck Donetsk Oblast with various weapons

Russian forces launched an attack on Donetsk Oblast using a variety of weapons, resulting in the deaths of five civilians and injuring three others.

On the morning of July 18, 2024, Russian forces shelled the settlement of Pleshchiivka in the Kramatorsk district. An 85-year-old resident was killed when a projectile struck a residential building. Despite efforts by medics, his wife also died while receiving emergency treatment.

Additionally, the settlement of Hrodivka in the Pokrovsk district was struck. Ammunition hit a residential area, killing three women aged 26, 32, and 77.

The Russian army also targeted the settlement of Velyka Novosilka in the Volnovakha district, deploying two KAB-250 guided bombs. A couple, aged 48 and 56, were injured while at home.

Another person was injured in an attack on the city of Zalizne, likely due to artillery shelling. The 58-year-old man was in his apartment when the attack occurred and has been hospitalized.

Russia threatens to deploy nuclear missiles in response to US placing Tomahawk missiles in Germany

Russia has indicated it may deploy missiles, including nuclear weapons, in response to the US positioning long-range weaponry in Germany. This comes after German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius mentioned that the US weapons to be deployed would be conventional, non-nuclear arms.

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov did not rule out any options regarding missile deployment and accused Germany and the US of abandoning arms control agreements. He emphasized that NATO's collective capabilities necessitate calibrated responses without internal restrictions on deployment decisions.

During a NATO summit in Washington, DC, it was announced that the US and Germany agreed to deploy Tomahawk missiles in Germany to enhance deterrence and protect NATO partners. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz supported the plan, stating it aligns with Germany's security strategy.

Previously, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov warned that European capitals could become potential targets if their countries host US long-range missiles.

Ukrainian defenders withdraw from Urozhaine, Donetsk Oblast

Ukrainian defenders have withdrawn from Urozhaine in Donetsk Oblast after the Russian army completely destroyed the village and the positions of Ukrainian troops. The command made the decision to safeguard personnel.

Nazar Voloshyn, the spokesperson for the Khortytsia Operational Strategic Group of Forces, explained that the defense forces relocated due to the extensive destruction in Urozhaine. He emphasized that this move was essential to preserve the lives and health of the servicemen.

The village itself has been almost entirely obliterated by enemy attacks, making it unsafe for Ukrainian defenders to remain. Voloshyn noted that the Russian army incurred significant losses daily to achieve control over these devastated areas, resulting in numerous casualties and ruined settlements.

Despite the withdrawal, Voloshyn assured us that the situation on the front would remain under the control of Ukrainian forces.