The Kyiv Independent [unofficial]
Russia’s war against Ukraine
A double rainbow emerges over buildings in downtown Kyiv on Aug. 8, 2026 mere hours after Russia launched yet another attack on the capital and surrounding region. Officials said the attack killed four people, including 3-year-old child. (Roman Pilipey / AFP via Getty Images)
Ukraine buys 70 ATACMS missiles, other US weapons from Turkey in major defense package. The package includes 70 M39 ATACMS missiles, 12 M270 multiple-launch rocket systems (MLRS), over 2,000 cluster munitions, and 47,000 howitzer rounds, according to a notice from the U.S. State Department.
‘We understand all their weak points’ — Zelensky ‘satisfied‘ with Ukraine’s ’40-day campaign,’ suggests more strikes on Russian logistics planned. President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Aug. 8 that he was “satisfied” with the result of a 40-day influence operation designed to compel Russia to “end the war,” suggesting that Kyiv’s forces will continue to strike Russian logistics beyond the limited timeline.
US intelligence believes explosives-equipped drone at German airport likely belongs to Moscow, WSJ reports. The details come a few days after a Ukrainian cargo plane loaded with ammunition was targeted by a drone carrying explosives at Germany’s Leipzig/Halle Airport late on Aug. 4, German media reported.
Unidentified drone explodes near gas pipeline at Bulgarian-Romanian border, Kyiv to launch inquiry. The drone entered Bulgarian airspace from Romania and exploded approximately 1 kilometer away from a compressor station on the Trans-Balkan gas pipeline. There were no casualties or damage.
Ukraine says it struck 2 oil refineries in Russia. Ukraine’s recent strikes have targeted some of the biggest oil refineries in Russia, seeking to further exacerbate the country’s fuel crisis.
Fires seen in Russia’s Belgorod amid reported Ukrainian drone attack. Ukraine’s military reportedly launched a wide-ranging drone attack on the Russian city of Belgorod overnight on Aug. 9, Russian Telegram media channels reported.
Ukraine says it struck 12 Russian shadow fleet vessels in Black Sea and Sea of Azov. Since the start of the operation on July 6, Ukrainian drones have struck 218 Russian shadow fleet vessels, including 134 in the Sea of Azov and 84 in the Black Sea, according to the Unmanned Systems Forces.
Serbia’s Vucic backs Ukraine’s EU membership on 2nd day of summit with Zelensky. Serbian President Alexander Vucic on Aug. 8 backed Ukraine’s bid for EU membership on the second day of President Volodymyr Zelensky’s visit to the country.
Life in Ukraine’s last Donbas strongholds as Russia closes in
Human cost of war
Russian missile attack damages residential buildings in Odesa, injures at least 6. Sehrii Lysak, head of the Odesa City Military Administration, reported that buildings have been damaged in several districts of the city. Car fires were also seen in Odesa.
Russian attacks across Ukraine kill at least 12, injure 81. The Air Force said Russia launched six Iskander-M ballistic missiles and S-400 surface-to-air missiles overnight. No missiles were shot down.
Russian drone hits Sumy-Kyiv train, passengers evacuated on time. The attack occurred at around 8 a.m. local time, according to the local branch of public broadcaster Suspilne.
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International response
Belgian company seeks exception to keep operating in Russia’s drone hub — as it does so anyway. A Belgian factory continues to operate in Russia’s special economic zone known as a key defense production site despite EU requirements to leave the zone by late January 2026.
Turkey urges halt to Russian, Ukrainian attacks on vessels in Black Sea. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan on Aug. 8 called on Russia and Ukraine to impose a moratorium on attacks on vessels in the Black Sea amid the increasing number of strikes on ships in the region.
Meet the collection inspired by Kyiv’s embroidery
Two collaborations, one enduring Ukrainian tradition. Created so you can carry a piece of Kyiv with you, wherever you go.
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