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The Kyiv Independent [unofficial]
Russia’s war against Ukraine
Residents evacuated from the Russian-controlled city of Oleshky during a humanitarian mission embrace at an undisclosed location in Ukraine, on Oct. 31, 2026. (Andrew Kravchenko/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
Lavrov denies Kyiv Independent reporting on Russian push for Putin-Zelensky phone call. “Don’t trust them,” Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said when asked about the reports.
Evacuees from occupied Oleshky en route to Ukrainian-controlled territory after 4 planes land in Belarus. “We will be home soon! For now, we are on the territory of the Republic of Belarus — together with our people and even their beloved pets,” Ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets said.
Russian airstrike destroys Kramatorsk city council building that survived 2014 occupation. “They can destroy a building, scorch our land and steal our memories. But they cannot destroy our right to a future,” he wrote.
‘I don’t know if negotiated peace is achievable,’ Rubio says as uncertainty hangs over Russia-Ukraine talks. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed uncertainty about whether a negotiated peace deal between Ukraine and Russia is possible, speaking at a G20 foreign ministers meeting on Oct. 31.
Ukraine hits plant producing fuel for Russian multiple-launch rocket systems in Rostov Oblast, military says. The plant, located in the Russian city of Kamensk-Shakhtinsky, produces solid rocket propellant for the Uragan, Smerch, and Tornado-S multiple-launch rocket systems.
Russian oil refinery in Kstovo ablaze after reported overnight drone strike.
Ukraine has targeted the facility a number of times, including a confirmed strike on Aug. 26 that sparked a large fire. The NORSI suspended operations due to damaged sustained in that attack.
US approves $2.1 billion Patriot missile sale to Ukraine as NATO commander dismisses delivery concerns. “We are asking our American partners to find a solution for the time when there is a real danger and a real need to use PAC-3 interceptors,” President Volodymyr Zelensky said.
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Oleshky residents reach Ukrainian-controlled territory after escaping Russian occupation
Evacuees from the Russian-occupied city of Oleshky have reached Ukrainian-controlled territory on Oct. 31 after an arduous 19-hour journey.
Photo: Viacheslav Ratynskyi/The Kyiv Independent
Ukraine never agreed to pause strikes on Russian refineries, sources confirm
Ukraine’s campaign targeting Russian oil refineries is ongoing, Ukrainian officials told the Kyiv Independent, rejecting reports that Kyiv had agreed to suspend the strikes.
Photo: AFP via Getty Images
Human costs of war
Russian attacks kill 5, injure at least 46 as Ukraine faces ‘difficult’ energy situation. Ukrainian forces downed 105 out of the 134 drones, including jet-powered attack drones, launched by Russia overnight, the Air Force reported. Russian drones struck 20 different locations, and debris fell in 10 areas, according to the statement.
Russia has killed 120 members of the clergy, Zelensky says. Zelensky spoke of Russian attacks on Ukrainian clergy members and said over 800 institutions have been damaged.
International response
Erdogan calls Black Sea ship attacks unacceptable after ‘substantive’ Zelensky talks. “We’re working to strengthen the protection of our people, our bilateral partnership with Turkey, and real diplomatic prospects. There are important issues concerning shipping in the Black Sea,” President Volodymyr Zelensky said.
In other news
US warns Russia of ‘mass-casualty event’ threat at historic palace outside Moscow. The U.S. Embassy said it considered the information about the potential incident “a credible threat” and was coordinating with Russian authorities.
’Tis the season to shop Ukrainian: Kyiv Independent launches 2026 Holiday Gift Guide
Our second annual Holiday Gift Guide is packed with hand-picked, Ukrainian-made finds for every taste and budget. Every purchase supports local designers, artisans, and entrepreneurs — so let your good taste do some good.
“You can’t tell Ukraine’s story without showcasing the country’s creativity and creators. As a huge fan (and shopper!) of Ukrainian brands, I couldn’t be more excited to put these names in front of the world.”
— Liliane Bivings,
Kyiv Independent business editor
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