Overview and Background

On June 28, 2025, the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine marked its 1,220th day, with significant military engagements and developments reported. Ukraine's military claimed a successful strike on four Russian Su-34 warplanes at the Marinovka base, approximately 900 kilometers from the Ukrainian border. In retaliation, Russia conducted a missile attack in the southeastern Ukrainian city of Samar, resulting in at least five fatalities and over 20 injuries. The situation remains volatile, with both sides engaging in offensive operations and counterattacks.

Key Developments

• Ukraine's military reported the destruction of four Russian Su-34 fighter jets at a military base in Volgograd.
• A Russian missile strike in Samar killed at least five and injured more than 20 civilians.
• Russian forces captured the village of Nova Kruhlyakivka in Ukraine's Kharkiv region.
• Ukrainian air defenses downed 359 out of 363 drones and six of eight missiles in an overnight assault.
• U.S. President Donald Trump expressed optimism about potential peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine.

Military Engagements and Casualties

In a recent battlefield engagement, Ukrainian forces successfully executed a counterattack in the Sumy region, resulting in the death of a senior Russian commander and significant losses for Russian troops. Reports indicate that Russian forces have lost approximately one million personnel since the start of the full-scale invasion in February 2022. Concurrently, drone strikes by both sides continue to inflict civilian casualties, with the U.N. reporting over 13,300 civilian deaths since the war began.

International Reactions and Sanctions

In response to the escalating conflict, Lithuania announced its withdrawal from the antipersonnel landmine treaty, joining several other NATO members. U.S. Senator Ron Wyden called for stricter enforcement of sanctions against Russia and highlighted the importance of U.S.-Ukraine agreements on critical minerals. Ukraine is also seeking EU sanctions against Bangladeshi entities involved in the import of wheat from occupied territories.

“Ukraine needs to strengthen its air defense - the thing that best protects lives,” said President Volodymyr Zelensky.

The conflict continues to evolve, with both sides demonstrating resilience and tactical adaptations in response to ongoing military and geopolitical challenges.