Ukraine Strikes Russian Refineries, Budget Deficit Widens Amid Intensified Conflict

Ukraine has intensified its drone attacks, successfully hitting three Russian oil refineries and an artillery ammunition depot in occupied Luhansk. These strikes, coupled with ongoing conflict, are significantly impacting Russia's war economy, contributing to a surging budget deficit that has reached $82 billion. The Ukrainian chief prosecutor has resigned amidst a corruption scandal, denying allegations and stating he does not want his office used for political confrontation.

Meanwhile, Russia has threatened "additional measures" in response to Norway's deployment of howitzers and US missiles near its border. The deepening ties between Russia and North Korea were further underscored by the opening of their first shared road bridge. In Ukraine, Swedish radar planes have been operating within Russian missile range for six months without being shot down, and 67 companies are reportedly working on drone countermeasures, though only a few have shown significant results.