Ukraine, Russia Trade Drone Strikes on Nuclear, Energy Sites During Independence Day

On Ukraine's 34th Independence Day, escalating drone and missile strikes marked a significant intensification in the conflict between Ukraine and Russia. Ukraine's Security Service and Special Operations Forces conducted long-range drone attacks on Russia's Ust-Luga gas processing complex, causing a large explosion and fire, while Russian forces reported intercepting numerous Ukrainian drones. Russia accused Ukraine of launching drone strikes that caused a fire and damage to a transformer at the Kursk Nuclear Power Plant, though radiation levels remained normal and the fire was quickly contained. Both sides reported heavy drone activity, with Russia claiming to have intercepted 95 Ukrainian drones and Ukraine shooting down or jamming 48 Russian drones and a cruise missile. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reaffirmed Ukraine's resolve for sovereignty and peace in a video address, while Western allies showed support by raising Ukrainian flags and delivering air defense systems. The International Atomic Energy Agency called for restraint to protect nuclear facilities amid the ongoing military activity near sensitive sites.