Politics
Multi-source politics news digests
Middle East violence and Gaza aid pledges
The Middle East has seen renewed heavy violence as US and Iranian forces exchange attacks over the strategic Strait of Hormuz, threatening an April ceasefire. US airstrikes targeted Iranian positions to protect shipping, while Iran retaliated against Gulf nations and warned of suspending a framework agreement. Oil prices spiked on supply fears. Meanwhile, an EU-backed donor conference pledged €900 million (about $1 billion) for Gaza reconstruction, but this is critically short of the $71 billion UN-estimated need. The war has killed over 70,000 Palestinians and displaced 90% of Gaza's population, with the ceasefire repeatedly violated. A human-interest story from Gaza highlights a bookseller rebuilding his life amid the ruins, symbolizing cultural resilience.
EU to restrict social media for kids under 13
The European Commission, led by President Ursula von der Leyen, has announced plans to propose legislation restricting social media access for children under 13, following recommendations from a panel of experts. The report, presented on July 13, 2026, urges that children under 13 should only use social media under parental or teacher supervision, with time limits, and that teenagers aged 13-18 should have gradual, supervised access with safety features. Von der Leyen emphasized that social media platforms must prove their services do no harm, citing mental health risks such as sleep problems, depression, and anxiety among children who spend four to six hours daily on screens. The experts also recommended no screen time for children under three and limited, supervised use for ages 3-12. The Commission will review the report and present a legislative proposal after the summer. Several EU member states, including France, Spain, and Germany, have already considered national age limits, but EU-wide rules aim to harmonize regulations and avoid market fragmentation. Australia's social media ban for under-16s was cited as a model, though its effectiveness has been debated due to easy circumvention by minors. Criticism has emerged from Estonia, which emphasizes digital literacy and argues that children should learn to navigate the online world. The proposal will require approval from the European Parliament and EU countries, and negotiations are expected to take time. The report represents a significant step toward protecting children online, but implementation challenges remain, including enforcement and age verification.
EU pledges €900m for Gaza reconstruction
The European Union has announced a €900 million ($1 billion) aid package for Gaza reconstruction following a donor conference in Brussels. Dubbed the “Team Gaza Initiative,” the funds aim to restore basic water and sanitation, health, energy, and food systems, as well as clear rubble. The initiative involves multiple EU member states, the World Bank, the European Investment Bank, and other partners. However, the pledged amount is far below the estimated $71 billion needed for full recovery over the next decade, according to a UN report. The announcement comes amid ongoing conflict, with the Israeli military still controlling 70% of Gaza and continued casualties despite a ceasefire brokered in October 2025.
Ukraine drone attacks and peace talks
A series of developments highlight Ukraine's intensifying drone warfare and parallel diplomatic efforts. Ukraine executed the world's first fully robotic amphibious assault, deploying a gun-toting ground robot via a naval drone onto Russian-occupied territory near the Kinburn Spit, showcasing an advanced integration of uncrewed systems. Meanwhile, Ukrainian drone units continue to strike deep inside Russia, with recent attacks killing three in Moscow, and secret coordination centers manage swarms of UAVs to target Russian forces. On the diplomatic front, nine European countries plus Ukraine launched a coalition to develop a shared anti-ballistic missile defense system, described as purely defensive. The UK joined an EU 90-billion-euro loan for Ukraine, with leaders meeting in Paris under the 'coalition of the willing' framework. Domestically, President Zelenskyy ordered another Cabinet shake-up amid falling popularity and pressure for elections, though wartime martial law prevents voting. The combination of innovative drone tactics, sustained strikes, and coalition-building underscores Ukraine's strategy to fight effectively while securing long-term support.
Ann Widdecombe murder investigation: former UK minister's death probed as potential terrorism after new evidence
Ann Widdecombe, a prominent British former Conservative minister and later Reform UK spokesperson, was found dead at her home in Devon on July 9, 2026. Initially treated as a murder with no political motive, the investigation took a dramatic turn when Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood announced that counter-terrorism police were leading the case after new evidence emerged. A 28-year-old white British man, initially arrested on suspicion of murder, has been rearrested on suspicion of terrorism offences. The suspect is believed to have driven nearly 480 kilometres from South Yorkshire to Widdecombe's isolated bungalow, and CCTV footage shows him loading a wooden pole into his car before the attack. Widdecombe, known for her strong Christian beliefs, euroscepticism, and media appearances, was 78 years old. Her murder has heightened concerns about the safety of politicians in the UK, following the killings of Jo Cox and David Amess. Various international outlets have covered the story, highlighting the political dimension and the shift in the investigation. While some had previously downplayed a political motive, the involvement of counter-terrorism police suggests a possible ideological attack. The suspect remains in custody, and police are pursuing multiple lines of inquiry.
Iran-US tensions escalate over Strait of Hormuz with military strikes and ceasefire collapse
Tensions between the United States and Iran have escalated dramatically over the strategic Strait of Hormuz. The latest round of hostilities began when Iran attacked commercial vessels near Oman, prompting US retaliatory strikes on Iranian military targets. In response, Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments, and launched missile and drone attacks on US military bases in Gulf states including Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Jordan, and Qatar. The violence marks a breakdown of a fragile 60-day interim ceasefire agreement that was intended to lead to broader peace talks. Coverage of the crisis varies by outlet. Africa News focuses on the competing territorial claims over the strait, while Taipei Times provides a detailed timeline of military exchanges and regional reactions. Al Jazeera English offers a comparative analysis, highlighting how the current escalation differs from the full-scale war in March, noting that both sides are still open to negotiations. The Independent emphasizes US President Donald Trump's provocative statements and the UK's decision to proscribe Iran's Revolutionary Guard as a terrorist organization. The situation remains volatile, with fears of further disruption to global energy supplies and regional stability. Diplomatic efforts by Qatar and Pakistan are ongoing, but the trajectory points toward sustained, albeit limited, combat rather than a resolution.
Ann Widdecombe murder terrorism investigation
The death of former Conservative MP and Reform UK spokeswoman Ann Widdecombe, 78, has taken a dramatic turn as counter-terrorism police have assumed control of the murder investigation. Widdecombe was found dead at her home in Haytor Vale, Dartmoor, on the morning of July 11, 2026, with serious head injuries. Initially, Devon and Cornwall Police stated there was no evidence of a political or terrorist motive. However, on July 13, after new information and evidence emerged, Counter Terrorism Policing South East took over the case and re-arrested a 28-year-old white British man on suspicion of commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism. The man had originally been arrested in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, on suspicion of murder. A 26-year-old previously detained was released and is no longer a suspect.
US-Iran military escalation in Gulf
The military conflict between the United States and Iran escalated dramatically in mid-July 2026, with both sides launching strikes against each other and their allies. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) conducted a multi-phase retaliatory operation dubbed 'eye-for-an-eye', targeting US military bases in Jordan, Bahrain, and Kuwait, as well as radar systems in Oman. The strikes destroyed Patriot air defense systems, fuel depots, and radar installations, according to Iranian claims. The US responded by bombing Iranian military targets in Khuzestan province, killing at least two civilians. The conflict originated in late February 2026 when the US and Israel attacked Iran. A 60-day ceasefire agreement signed in June quickly unraveled, with both sides accusing each other of violations. The strategic Strait of Hormuz remains a flashpoint, with Iran asserting control over the waterway and the US denying its authority. The UK moved to proscribe the IRGC as a terrorist organization amid the violence, adding a diplomatic dimension to the military confrontation. Gulf states find themselves caught in the crossfire. Bahrain hosts a major US Navy base and has been directly struck, while Kuwait's large US military presence makes it a target. Saudi Arabia, which hosts US air bases, has urged diplomacy but fears being dragged into a war it never wanted. The humanitarian impact is severe, with civilian infrastructure damaged and lives disrupted across the region.
South China Sea tensions and Taiwan
Multiple articles from Taipei Times cover the ongoing tensions in the South China Sea and Taiwan's role in the region. One article details Taiwan's reiteration of its 'Four Principles' for resolving disputes, emphasizing peaceful settlement and inclusion in multilateral mechanisms. Another reports that the EU and 14 nations reaffirmed the 2016 arbitration ruling that invalidated China's expansive claims, with China rejecting the ruling. A separate article highlights the rising number of Taiwanese citizens detained or missing in China, which the DPP attributes to Beijing's coercive legal framework. Taiwan's President Lai touts the nation's technological leadership and global supply chain role, while a US researcher downplays tensions by stating Taiwan and the US are semiconductor partners, not competitors. A report on China's submarine-launched ballistic missile test into the Pacific suggests Beijing is establishing a new norm of strategic nuclear demonstrations. Finally, President Lai mourns the death of US Senator Lindsey Graham, a staunch Taiwan supporter.
US-Iran military attacks
Renewed military hostilities between the United States and Iran escalated in July 2026, with both sides launching strikes targeting military bases and strategic infrastructure. The conflict, which began in late February 2026, has drawn in Gulf states such as Bahrain, Kuwait, and Jordan, which have suffered Iranian retaliatory attacks due to their hosting of US military installations. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime chokepoint for global oil shipments, has become a central flashpoint, with both Washington and Tehran claiming control over the waterway. US President Donald Trump stated that Iran had agreed to a comprehensive deal but then attacked a commercial ship, prompting American forces to launch multiple waves of strikes aimed at degrading Iran's ability to threaten shipping. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) responded by targeting US bases in the Gulf and asserting that the Strait of Hormuz is Iranian territory. Retired US General Mark Kimmitt warned that the renewed fighting could reignite a wider regional conflict, while Gulf nations find themselves caught in the crossfire, facing both direct attacks and internal political tensions. The conflict has disrupted civilian life in Bahrain and Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia has called for diplomacy to avoid further escalation. The situation remains volatile, with both sides accusing each other of violating previous ceasefire agreements and no immediate end to the fighting in sight.
US-Iran conflict escalation
The United States and Iran have resumed military strikes after a brief ceasefire, escalating the conflict over control of the Strait of Hormuz. The US launched airstrikes on Iranian coastal bases, and Iran retaliated by attacking US military installations in Kuwait, Bahrain, Jordan, and reportedly Oman. Both sides assert control of the strategic waterway, with the US Central Command denying Iran’s claim and Iran’s Revolutionary Guard declaring the strait its territory. The renewed fighting follows a failed memorandum of understanding signed in June and threatens to widen into a broader regional war, as retired US General Mark Kimmitt warns of potential for further escalation. Gulf nations, particularly Bahrain, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia, face direct impacts from the strikes, including civilian disruption and political tensions.
Iran-US military escalation over Strait of Hormuz
Iran's Revolutionary Guard launched retaliatory strikes on US military bases in Bahrain, Kuwait, and Jordan following a new round of US attacks. The US military announced it struck 140 targets in Iran, including missile and drone sites, as tensions over control of the Strait of Hormuz reached a critical point. President Trump claimed Iran had agreed to a 'perfect' deal before attacking, while Iranian officials insisted the strait is their territory and vowed to charge vessels for passage.
Ukraine war: Zelenskyy reshuffles cabinet
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced plans to replace Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko as part of a broader government reshuffle, citing a need to implement an updated political strategy. Svyrydenko served only 12 months and was offered a new role focusing on relations with a key international partner, possibly the US ambassador position. The resignation requires parliamentary approval and would entail the resignation of the entire cabinet.
Iran-US conflict and Gulf attacks
The conflict between Iran and the United States escalated sharply in mid-July 2026, centering on control of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil shipments. The US launched multiple waves of airstrikes against Iranian military sites, claiming the strikes were necessary to degrade Iran's ability to attack commercial shipping. In retaliation, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) attacked US military bases in Bahrain, Kuwait, and Jordan, hitting fuel depots and ammunition stores, and warning of further escalation. Both sides issued starkly conflicting claims. US President Donald Trump asserted that a diplomatic deal had been near but was sabotaged by an Iranian drone attack on a container ship, while Iranian officials denied any deal and insisted on their right to control the strait. Oil prices jumped over 4% as maritime traffic through the strait plummeted, with only a handful of vessels crossing per day compared to pre-war levels of over 130. The US Central Command stated the waterway remained open, while Iran declared it closed to unauthorized traffic. The standoff has drawn in Gulf states hosting US forces, turning them into targets and raising fears of a broader regional war. The economic impact is already being felt through higher oil prices and reduced shipping, threatening global energy markets. The international community has called for restraint, but both Washington and Tehran show no signs of de-escalation.
Iran-US conflict and Strait of Hormuz: escalating attacks, contested control, and economic fallout
The United States and Iran are engaged in a new round of direct attacks, centering on control of the Strait of Hormuz. The US launched a wave of strikes targeting Iranian air defense, missile, and naval assets, claiming to degrade Tehran's ability to threaten commercial shipping. Iran retaliated by firing missiles and drones at US military bases in Bahrain, Kuwait, Jordan, and other Gulf states, and reiterated that the strait is closed to unauthorized vessels. The standoff has caused oil prices to surge and shipping traffic through the vital waterway to plummet to multi-week lows.
US-Iran conflict escalates with fresh strikes
The US and Iran have entered a new phase of military escalation, with the US launching fresh airstrikes on Iranian targets and Iran retaliating by striking US military installations across the Middle East. The conflict centers on control of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital maritime corridor. The US has conducted multiple waves of strikes, hitting air defense systems, coastal radar, missile and drone equipment, and small boats. Iran has responded by closing the Strait of Hormuz, attacking commercial ships, and launching missiles and drones at bases in Bahrain, Kuwait, Jordan, Qatar, Oman, and the UAE. The escalation comes after a brief ceasefire memorandum fell apart, with both sides accusing each other of violations.
Ukraine war: Zelenskyy reshuffles government
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced on July 12, 2026, plans to reshuffle the government, including replacing Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko. The move is part of an updated political strategy, with Svyrydenko offered a new role focusing on relations with a key international partner, possibly US ambassador. The reshuffle requires parliamentary approval and would trigger a complete cabinet resignation. Possible successors include former Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, and Naftogaz head Serhiy Koretskyi. Priorities outlined include implementing defense agreements, Patriot missile production, EU accession talks, and preparing for winter energy challenges.
US-Iran conflict escalates with new strikes
The United States launched fresh military strikes against Iran on July 13, 2026, targeting positions near the Strait of Hormuz in an effort to 'degrade Iran's ability to attack civilian mariners and commercial ships.' President Donald Trump ordered the attacks, calling Iran 'evil and sick' and claiming Tehran broke a recent peace deal by firing a drone at a container ship. Iran retaliated by striking US allies in the region, including Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, Jordan, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates, and stated it had again closed the Strait of Hormuz to shipping. Oil prices jumped 4% as markets reacted to the renewed hostilities and the threat to the vital waterway. Diplomatic efforts, including talks in Muscat, failed as each side accused the other of violating agreements. The escalation marks a significant uptick in the months-long conflict that began with US-Israeli strikes in February.
Iran-US standoff over Strait of Hormuz
The United States launched extensive airstrikes on Iranian targets in the Strait of Hormuz early Sunday, July 12, 2026, after an Iranian attack set a container ship ablaze and forced its crew to abandon it. Iran responded by closing the strait to commercial shipping and launching drone attacks on US positions in Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, and the UAE. The US military's Central Command stated it hit 140 targets, including missile launch sites and ammunition dumps, to degrade Iran's ability to threaten civilian mariners. Iran's Revolutionary Guard declared the strait closed, but US President Trump and the military disputed this, insisting the waterway remains open for legitimate transit. The escalation comes after a fragile ceasefire that Trump declared "over" on Friday, following repeated mutual violations.
US-Iran tensions and Strait of Hormuz attacks
In July 2026, the US launched a series of airstrikes against Iranian military targets in response to an Iranian attack on a container ship in the Strait of Hormuz. The strikes, described by US Central Command as degrading Iran's ability to target commercial vessels, hit over 140 targets including missile sites, drone positions, and coastal surveillance. Iran retaliated by striking US interests in Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and the UAE, while also claiming that the Strait of Hormuz was closed to shipping. The US insisted the strait remained open for lawful transit. The escalating attacks came after a fragile ceasefire agreed in June appeared to collapse, with President Trump declaring the interim deal 'over' and accusing Iran of breaking the agreement. European and Middle Eastern outlets reported conflicting claims about the strait's status, while Al Jazeera highlighted civilian casualties and economic hardship in Iran. The revival of hostilities raised fears of a full-scale war and global energy disruptions, as the Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint for oil and gas shipments. Trump's harsh rhetoric, including calling Iran 'evil and sick', further underscored the breakdown in diplomacy. The situation remains fluid, with both sides claiming to have inflicted significant damage and vowing further action if provoked.
Ukraine war: Russian attacks and oil refinery strike
Recent developments in the Ukraine war include Russian missile and drone attacks on Kyiv, which wounded 11 people and damaged civilian infrastructure, and a separate strike on a weapons warehouse outside Kyiv that killed 10. Ukraine's President Zelensky condemned the storage of weapons in a residential area and announced that responsible officials would be held accountable. He also urged Western allies to speed up arms deliveries and revealed a cabinet reshuffle, with Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko stepping down to focus on foreign policy priorities. Meanwhile, Ukraine intensified its drone campaign against Russian oil refineries, striking the 10 largest facilities and causing severe fuel shortages across Russia, with long gas queues and rising prices. The U.S. pledged to license Ukraine to manufacture Patriot air defense systems, though technical details remain unresolved.
Iran-US tensions and Strait of Hormuz conflict
The conflict between the United States and Iran escalated sharply in July 2026, triggered by an Iranian attack on a container ship in the Strait of Hormuz. The U.S. retaliated with large-scale airstrikes on Iranian military targets, hitting over 140 sites across three nights. Iran responded by closing the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global oil and gas transit, and launching missiles at Gulf states including Bahrain, Qatar, the UAE, and Oman. President Trump declared a previous ceasefire 'over', and both sides traded accusations of violating a memorandum of understanding meant to de-escalate tensions. The crisis has renewed fears of a global energy crisis and drawn in regional players, with Gulf states scrambling to defend their airspace and shipping lanes.
Former Qatari Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani dies at 74
Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the former emir of Qatar who transformed the small Gulf state into a wealthy and influential global player, died on July 12, 2026, at the age of 74. The official Amiri Diwan announced his death early Sunday. Sheikh Hamad ruled Qatar from 1995 to 2013 after seizing power in a bloodless coup from his father. During his 18-year reign, he leveraged the country's vast natural gas reserves to build one of the world's highest GDP per capita, founded the influential Al Jazeera media network, expanded Qatar Airways, and successfully bid to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup. He also established Qatar as a key mediator in regional conflicts, from Lebanon to Darfur to Palestine, and was a vocal supporter of Palestinian rights, visiting Gaza in 2012 with a $400 million reconstruction pledge. In 2013, he voluntarily abdicated in favor of his son, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, a rare move among modern Arab leaders.
US Senator Lindsey Graham dies at 71
US Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina died on July 11, 2026, at the age of 71 after a brief and sudden illness, according to his office. Graham, a veteran Republican and influential voice on foreign policy, had just returned from a trip to Kyiv, where he met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and announced bipartisan support for new Russia sanctions. He was a staunch advocate for Ukraine, Israel, and a hardline stance on Iran, and evolved from an early critic of Donald Trump to one of his closest allies. His death creates new uncertainty for the Republican majority in the Senate, compounded by the ongoing health absence of Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell.
Death of former Qatar Emir Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani
Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the former Emir of Qatar who ruled from 1995 to 2013, has died at age 74. The Amiri Diwan announced his passing on July 12, 2026, without specifying a cause. He is credited with transforming Qatar from a small, marginal emirate into a wealthy global player through aggressive development of its liquefied natural gas (LNG) sector, creation of Al Jazeera media network, and hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup. His reign also saw significant social and economic reforms, including the adoption of a permanent constitution and municipal elections where women could vote and stand for office. Sheikh Hamad came to power in a bloodless palace coup against his father in 1995. He voluntarily abdicated in 2013 in favor of his son, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, a rare move in the Gulf region. While praised for modernizing Qatar, his tenure was also marked by diplomatic isolation due to Qatar's support for Islamist movements and close ties to Iran, as well as criticism over migrant worker treatment during World Cup preparations. Leaders from around the world, including Egypt's President Sisi, India's PM Modi, and Italy's PM Meloni, offered condolences, highlighting his role in shaping modern Qatar.
Iran-US conflict: strikes, Hormuz closure
The United States launched a third round of strikes on Iran in a week, hitting 140 military targets in retaliation for an Iranian attack on a container ship in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran responded by closing the strategic waterway indefinitely and launching missile and drone attacks on US military facilities in Bahrain, Qatar, UAE, Kuwait, Jordan, and Oman. The escalation shattered a fragile ceasefire agreed in June, with US President Donald Trump declaring the truce 'over' and Iran's parliament speaker accusing Washington of violating the memorandum of understanding. The conflict has disrupted global oil shipments, with about a fifth of traded oil normally passing through the strait, though oil prices have dropped from wartime highs.
Former Qatar Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani dies at 74, leaving legacy of transforming Qatar into global powerhouse
Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the former Emir of Qatar who ruled from 1995 to 2013, has died at the age of 74, the Amiri Diwan announced on July 12, 2026. He was widely regarded as the architect of modern Qatar, overseeing its transformation from a small, marginal emirate into a major global player in diplomacy, media, and finance through the development of its liquefied natural gas industry, the launch of Al Jazeera, and successful bid for the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Sheikh Hamad came to power in a bloodless coup against his father in 1995 and later voluntarily abdicated in 2013 in favor of his son, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, a rare move in the region. His reign was marked by rapid economic growth, social and cultural reforms, and an independent foreign policy that fostered ties with Iran, Hamas, and the Muslim Brotherhood—often drawing criticism from Western and regional allies. World leaders including Italy's Giorgia Meloni, Egypt's el-Sisi, and India's Modi offered condolences, praising his vision and leadership.
US Senator Lindsey Graham dies
US Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) died on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at the age of 71 after a brief and sudden illness, his office announced. A prominent Republican known for his hawkish foreign policy and close alliance with President Donald Trump, Graham served in the Senate since 2003 after eight years in the House. He had just returned from a visit to Kyiv, Ukraine, where he met President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. NBC News reported that emergency personnel responded to a cardiac arrest call at his Capitol Hill home, though his office did not specify the cause of death. Graham was running for a fifth Senate term and had recently become a vocal supporter of Trump after initially criticizing him. His death creates a vacancy that South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster will fill, with McConnell still hospitalized.
Russian missile attacks on Kyiv wound civilians
On July 11, 2026, Russia launched a series of ballistic and cruise missiles along with over 120 drones targeting Kyiv, injuring between 10 and 12 civilians, including children. The attacks struck residential buildings, offices, and a theological seminary, with some missiles hitting before air raid alerts sounded. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy used the incident to urge NATO allies to accelerate deliveries of military aid, particularly Patriot air defense systems, and called on the US to fulfill a pledge to license Ukraine to produce Patriots. The attacks follow an intensification of Russian strikes on Ukrainian cities.
Russia attacks Ukraine, Kyiv hit: Russian missile and drone strikes injure civilians in Kyiv and other cities, while Ukraine retaliates by targeting Russian oil tankers, causing fuel shortages. Zelensky urges faster weapons delivery from allies, and US moves to advance Russia sanctions and allow Ukraine to produce Patriot missiles.
Russia launched a fresh wave of missile and drone attacks on Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities early on July 11, 2026, injuring at least 11 people in the capital, including a child. Ballistic missiles struck before air raid alerts sounded, damaging apartment buildings, offices, and a theological seminary. President Volodymyr Zelensky reported that Russia used over 120 drones and 12 missiles, half of them ballistic, and repeated his plea for allies to deliver weapons more quickly, particularly Patriot air defense systems. The attacks occurred as Ukraine intensified its own drone strikes on Russian oil infrastructure, hitting 21 tankers in the Sea of Azov and causing severe fuel shortages across Russia, with long queues and rising prices. The US, meanwhile, moved to advance a bipartisan Russia sanctions bill and President Donald Trump pledged to license Ukraine to produce Patriot missiles, though experts say implementing the license could take years.