Russian President Vladimir Putin claims that Ukraine's incursion in Russia's Kursk region failed to impede Russia's offensive in the Donbas, allowing Moscow to accelerate its operations in eastern Ukraine. Despite significant Ukrainian efforts, including a major attack on August 6, Russian forces have made costly but steady advances, capturing strategic areas such as Avdiivka. In the deadliest strike this year, Russian missiles killed at least 41 people and injured over 180 in the central town of Poltava, intensifying the conflict's brutality. Meanwhile, Ukrainian forces continue to employ aggressive tactics, including using flamethrower drones against Russian troops near Kharkiv. The fighting remains fierce, with both sides suffering substantial losses and continuing to seek tactical advantages.