The ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia has seen a surge in Ukrainian drone attacks on Russian shipping, particularly in the Sea of Azov. This has led to a significant impact on Russia's logistics and infrastructure, with the country's transport ministry acknowledging the need to reroute cargo shipments away from the region. The Ukrainian drone forces commander's statement that 116 vessels were hit in just nine days is a stark reminder of the effectiveness of these attacks. This has prompted a strong response from Russia, with the foreign minister Sergei Lavrov accusing Ukraine of acts of terrorism, and the threat of retaliatory strikes from Vladimir Putin looming. The conflict has also seen Ukraine's military targeting Russian oil refineries, leading to fuel shortages and power cuts in Russian-controlled areas. The situation is further complicated by the increased use of drones by Russia, with Moscow mayor Sergei Sobyanin reporting 340 Ukrainian drones being dispatched to the area surrounding the capital over a 24-hour period. The US has also introduced a revised Russia sanctions bill, reducing tariffs on major buyers of Russian oil, including India and China. This move has been seen as a strategic response to the conflict, with European troops and warplanes joining the Bastille Day parade in Paris, showcasing unity and support for Ukraine. The death of Senator Lindsey Graham has also been a significant loss, with experts highlighting his role as a crucial bridge between traditional Republican foreign policy hawks and the Trump administration, and his advocacy for robust support for Ukraine. The conflict has also seen France and Ukraine sign a landmark defence agreement, allowing Ukraine to manufacture French Scalp-EG cruise missiles and receive advanced air defence systems and fighter jets. This agreement is a significant step in strengthening Ukraine's military capabilities and its ability to defend itself against Russian aggression.
