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Russia strikes western Ukraine

Dramatic new attacks on Ukraine as diplomacy stalls and talks continue with uncertain outcomes.

August 21, 2025 at 07:50 AM
blur Russia launches fresh wave of strikes on western Ukraine

Ukrainian officials say drones and missiles including hypersonic, ballistic and cruise weapons were used in a fresh wave of attacks.

Russia strikes western Ukraine as diplomacy stalls

Russia launched a new wave of strikes on western Ukraine, deploying drones along with a mix of hypersonic, ballistic and cruise missiles. Ukraine’s air force counted 614 aerial vehicles in overnight attacks, and said it intercepted 577 of them.

Diplomatic activity around a possible trilateral meeting mediated by the United States remains unsettled. Zelensky has said he is willing to meet Putin in any format. Hungary floated Budapest as a possible venue, though its Moscow-friendly stance could complicate perceptions of neutrality. Zelensky also pressed Trump to use his influence to urge Hungary to unblock negotiations for Ukraine to join the EU. Russian forces were reportedly massing on the southern Zaporizhzhia front, with some troops moving from Kursk to the region.

Key Takeaways

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Fresh strikes signal ongoing pressure on western Ukraine
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Diplomatic talks are possible but uncertain and politically complicated
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Ukraine seeks progress on EU membership alongside defense
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Hungary’s role could test EU cohesion and neutrality norms
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Russia shifts troops toward Zaporizhzhia while reconfiguring fronts
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Air defenses reportedly intercepted most of the attacks while impacts on infrastructure are being assessed
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The episode underscores the risk that diplomacy may struggle to keep pace with the battlefield

"I am willing to meet Putin in any format."

Zelensky signaled openness to talks amid the war.

"Trump promised that his team would work on this"

Statement linked to a potential mediated path after the Alaska meeting.

"One of the missiles struck a major American electronics manufacturer in our westernmost region, leading to serious damage and casualties."

Reported by Sybiha on social media regarding the attack.

The episode shows how battlefield moves and diplomacy are now tightly linked. Military pressure persists even as diplomats seek a path to talks, underscoring the fragility of any ceasefire or framework. Hungary’s formal offer highlights how EU unity can be tested by member states with different ties to Moscow. The broader risk is escalation, especially if mediation efforts collide with new Russian deployments in Ukraine’s south.

Highlights

  • Diplomacy moves at drone speed while the front lines stay hot
  • Ukraine wants EU progress even as it defends its land
  • Hungary could become a litmus test for EU unity
  • Trump's role in mediation could shift regional dynamics

Escalation risk and political sensitivity

The article touches on possible mediation, EU accession talks, and the stance of Hungary, which could spark political backlash and raise public sensitivity in multiple countries. The situation involves international actors and potential impact on budgets and security policy.

Diplomacy must keep pace with a fast-changing conflict.

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