Tensions between Ukraine and Russia heightened as both sides accused each other of blowing up a major dam near Kherson in southern Ukraine. The destruction of the Kakhovka dam, located

in an area occupied by Russian forces, led to evacuation warnings for residents along the Dnipro River.

In response to the incident, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called an emergency meeting with his National Security and Defense Council. He emphasized the need to expel Russian forces from Ukrainian territory, stating that Ukraine's victory is crucial for restoring security. Zelenskyy vowed that terrorists would not be able to halt Ukraine's progress.

Russian officials, however, claimed that Ukrainian strikes were responsible for damaging the dam. This conflicting information has further exacerbated the tensions between the two countries.

Meanwhile, Ukraine's military reported successfully destroying all 35 cruise missiles launched by Russia in an early morning attack. Most of these missiles were targeted at Kyiv, Ukraine's capital. The Ukrainian defense ministry confirmed the destruction of the missiles.

In the midst of these escalating hostilities, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba stated that Ukraine is ready with its weapons for a counteroffensive against Russia. However, he did not disclose whether the counteroffensive had already begun or when it would commence. Kuleba expressed confidence that a successful counteroffensive would enable Ukraine to reclaim its territories and potentially lead to NATO membership in the future.

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg previously stated that Ukraine joining NATO while the conflict is ongoing is not currently on the agenda. However, Kuleba indicated that membership might be considered once active hostilities cease.

The situation in Ukraine remains highly volatile, with heavy fighting reported in several regions. The international community closely watches these developments as tensions continue to escalate. Photo by Дзюбак Володимир, Wikimedia commons.