Russian Deputy Governor Killed by Mine in Kursk

Sergei Yefremov, the deputy governor of Russia's Primorsky Krai and commander of the Tigr volunteer unit, was killed in the Kursk region when his vehicle struck a landmine while returning from a combat mission. His death marks the highest-ranking Russian official casualty in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine. Governor Oleg Kozhemyako praised Yefremov as a hero, stating that he honored his combat duties and contributed significantly to his unit. This incident occurred amidst intense fighting in Kursk, where Ukraine has made territorial incursions since August. The situation has been exacerbated by ongoing drone attacks from both sides, leading to casualties and power outages in various regions. As tensions rise, diplomatic discussions between American President Donald Trump and both Ukraine and Russia are reportedly progressing positively.