**Ukraine President Calls for Urgent Sanctions to Halt Russian Missile Production**
In a recent press briefing, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized the need for urgent sanctions on more Russian defense companies involved in the production of the Oreshnik intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM). The call comes as Russia continues to use the threat of missile launches to intimidate Ukraine and its Western allies.
According to Zelensky, a large number of companies are involved in the manufacture of the Oreshnik, with 39 Russian defense firms participating in its production. However, only a small number of these companies are currently under sanctions. The President stressed that this allows them to receive parts and components necessary for the missile’s production.
“It is absolutely incomprehensible why sanctions should not be imposed urgently,” Zelensky said.
The Financial Times reported last month that Russia has been able to upgrade its military equipment, including advanced manufacturing systems from Western companies, despite sanctions. This has enabled Russia to develop and produce the Oreshnik more efficiently.
**Russia’s War Effort Gains Momentum**
Meanwhile, Ukraine’s war effort continues to escalate. The country’s Air Force reported that Russian forces launched 272 drones overnight, including Iranian-designed Shahed-type suicide drones. Additionally, two aeroballistic missiles and six cruise missiles were fired by Russia.
This comes as citizens from Uzbekistan and Tajikistan are increasingly being drawn into Russia’s war effort, according to Ukraine’s military intelligence (HUR).
**Ukraine Develops Interceptor Drones**
In response to the surge in Russian drone attacks, President Zelensky announced that Ukraine is developing interceptor drones to counter these strikes. The President stated that domestic production of these drones has already delivered results.
**NATO Summit and Peace Proposal**
President Zelensky will attend a NATO summit in The Hague next week, where he will likely discuss the ongoing conflict with Western allies. Russia’s envoy to the United Nations (UN), Vasily Nebenzya, stated that Russia’s memorandum on a peace proposal is the “best offer Ukraine can get today.”
However, President Zelensky has condemned Russia’s attempts to advance in Sumy Oblast, as Moscow intensifies its maximalist rhetoric.
**Escalating Conflict**
The ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel could further escalate tensions in the region. Two diplomats told Politico that this would make it impossible to impose new restrictions on Russian oil exports.
As Ukraine continues to call for Western partners to lower the price cap on Russian oil from $60 to $30 per barrel, the international community remains divided on how to address the conflict.
**New Game Focuses on Russia’s War in Ukraine**
A new game has been released that focuses on Russia’s war in Ukraine. The game features real battles and characters, providing a realistic representation of the ongoing conflict.
In other news, Ukraine introduced new restrictions on Russian drones after Russia escalated its attacks against Ukrainian cities over the past weeks.
As Russia continues to face challenges in mass-producing the Oreshnik missile, President Zelensky’s call for urgent sanctions takes on added significance. The international community remains divided on how to address the ongoing conflict, but one thing is clear: Ukraine will continue to fight for its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
