In what can only be described as Russia's latest attempt to win friends and influence people, at least 12 people, including one Indian citizen, were killed in overnight attacks on Ukraine, according to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Because nothing says diplomacy like bombing a border crossing with Romania into oblivion.
The strikes also left 'thousands' of families in the Odesa region without electricity, which is presumably Russia's way of encouraging energy independence. Kyiv, meanwhile, has now been targeted for six consecutive days, because why not? The attacks are part of a series of prolonged Russian assaults, including daytime bombing, aimed at 'wearing down' the war-torn country. Mission accomplished, we guess.
As Ukraine reels, EU defence ministers gather in Wicklow, Ireland, for an informal meeting, likely to discuss the obvious: Russia is a bit of a problem. Germany might be close to blaming Russia for last month's Leipzig drone incident, but we'll have to wait for the official announcement, because apparently accusing a nuclear-armed state of sabotage requires a few more meetings.
Meanwhile, Poland had a suspected arson at a drone factory on Sunday night, and Estonia and Latvia briefly activated air alerts when some drones wandered near their airspace. It's like a game of whack-a-mole, but with more missiles.
Ukraine's Prime Minister Sergii Koretskyi called on lawmakers to speed up voting on key legislation to secure financing, as the country faces a $27bn deficit for defence. Because nothing motivates legislation like a $27bn hole in the budget.
And in Norway, King Haakon VIII will take his oath in parliament, but Queen Mette-Marit will skip the ceremony due to complications from her lung transplant. No word on whether she's avoiding the Epstein-related scandals, but we're guessing the timing is convenient.
Back to Germany, Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, speaking from Algiers, declared: 'Germany will not be intimidated in any way.' We'll take that as a firm stance, though we're not sure Russia was trying to intimidate Germany by attacking Ukraine. But sure.
The EU defence ministers' meeting in Wicklow has an added layer of security: a British warship and a submarine-hunting helicopter deployed off the Irish coast, because Ireland's own forces lack the capability for long-range air defence. It's like asking your neighbor to watch your house because you don't have a security system.
Ireland's Defence Minister Helen McEntee called the talks 'a moment of profound challenge,' which is diplomatic for 'we're all a bit worried.' EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said NATO remains 'the cornerstone of our security,' but with the US pushing Europe to do more, there's scope for internal discussions. She also announced a high-level group of former leaders to 'have a fresh look at how to respond' to military threats. Because nothing says innovation like a committee.
In related news, Russia launched over 2,800 jet-powered drones at Ukraine in August, which are harder to shoot down, with an interception rate of about 60%, according to Air Force spokesperson Yuriy Ihnat. That's like trying to catch angry bees with a tennis racket.
And there you have it: Russia's overnight gift to Ukraine, Germany's strong words, and Ireland's defense meeting. Stay tuned for more updates, because this story is as relentless as the attacks.