Fires broke out at an oil depot and a fuel terminal in the Russian port city of Novorossiysk following debris from downed drones, according to media reports.
A total of 216 combat clashes between Ukraine’s Defense Forces and Russian troops were recorded over the past day, with the fiercest fighting taking place in the Pokrovsk and Huliaipole sectors.
On Saturday, May 23, Ukraine marks the Day of Heroes, a commemorative occasion established to honor Ukrainian defenders who fought and continue to fight for the country’s freedom and independence – from past generations to the present day.
The total combat losses of Russian forces in the war against Ukraine from February 24, 2022, to May 23, 2026, have reached approximately 1,354,810 personnel, including 950 troops killed over the past day.
Rebels in northern Mali shot down a Russian-made Shahed-136 attack drone (Garpiya-A1) on May 18 that had been used by mercenaries linked to Russia. The drone contained electronics produced by Chinese companies as well as other foreign-made components.
The situation on the battlefield is improving for Ukraine, and continued assistance from the European Union could prompt Russian leader Vladimir Putin to reassess his expectations regarding the war.
Any participation by representatives of Germany or the European Union in possible peace talks between Ukraine and Russia must be decided by Ukraine's leadership.