Russians hit railwaystation in Lozova, Kharkiv Oblast

Two people were killed and several others injured in a Russian attack on the city of Lozova during the night of August 4 to 5. The strike targeted railway infrastructure. According to Ukrzaliznytsia, a duty mechanic was killed at the scene, and four other railway workers were wounded. Later updates from Kharkiv Oblast officials confirmed that a second victim, a woman, died in hospital.

A total of nine people were injured in the attack, including children. Four remain in serious condition in the hospital. The Russian strike caused significant damage to the railway station and other infrastructure in Lozova.

Putin doesn't believe in the success of Trump`s sanctions

Russian President Vladimir Putin is reportedly skeptical of U.S. President Donald Trump’s ultimatum, set to expire on August 8, 2025, which threatens new sanctions and 100% tariffs on countries purchasing Russian oil, such as China and India, unless Russia agrees to a ceasefire in its war with Ukraine. Sources close to the Kremlin indicate that Putin’s resolve is driven by his belief that Russia is gaining ground, with recent territorial advances, including 502 square kilometers in July 2025, and confidence from Russia’s military General Staff that Ukraine’s front could collapse within months. Despite valuing his relationship with Trump and recognizing the potential to improve ties with the West, Putin prioritizes capturing four Ukrainian regions in their entirety, viewing the war as a critical part of his political legacy and a stand against Western influence. Previous sanctions have significantly impacted Russia’s economy, reducing oil and gas revenues and foreign investment by 63% last year, but support from North Korea and China has sustained Russia’s war efforts, further diminishing the perceived threat of Trump’s sanctions.

However, doubts persist about whether Trump will follow through on his ultimatum, given his history of unfulfilled threats and the risk that tariffs could backfire by driving up global oil prices, potentially harming the U.S. economy. Putin’s reluctance to negotiate is also influenced by a rejected U.S. offer in March 2025, which proposed sanctions relief and recognition of Russian control over Crimea and occupied territories in exchange for a ceasefire, an offer described as a “fantastic chance” but dismissed due to Putin’s maximalist goals. While Trump has expressed frustration, calling Russia’s attacks on Ukrainian cities “disgusting,” and is sending envoy Steve Witkoff to Russia to push for peace, Kremlin insiders suggest Putin sees no logic in halting the offensive amid battlefield gains. Ukraine, meanwhile, faces ongoing challenges, including delays in arms shipments and troop shortages, yet continues to resist, with officials like Volodymyr Zelenskyy welcoming Trump’s pressure on Russia as a step toward peace.

Mercenaries from Asia and Africa are fighting for Russia in northeastern Ukraine - Zelensky

President Volodymyr Zelensky stated on August 4 that Russian forces operating near Vovchansk in Kharkiv Oblast include foreign mercenaries from China, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Pakistan, and several African countries. This information comes from Ukrainian soldiers stationed on the front line.

During his visit to the 57th Separate Motorized Infantry Brigade, which is defending the Vovchansk sector, Zelensky met with commanders to discuss the situation on the battlefield, troop requirements, combat operations, drone usage, and direct funding for brigades.

Vovchansk, situated just five kilometers from the Russian border, has been the site of heavy fighting since Russia launched a renewed ground offensive in the region in May 2024.

Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine will respond to the presence of these foreign mercenaries. In reaction, Pakistan rejected the claims as baseless and said it had not received formal communication from Ukrainian authorities or any credible evidence. The Pakistani Foreign Ministry said it would seek clarification.

Zelensky said the meeting with commanders also addressed recruitment challenges and the need to expand access to drone technology, which plays a vital role in Ukraine’s defense and surveillance.

He previously stated in April that several hundred Chinese nationals were involved in the war on Russia’s side, with one captured fighter reportedly having paid a middleman for Russian citizenship in exchange for enlisting.

China has denied that any of its citizens are involved, insisting it advises them to avoid foreign conflicts. Meanwhile, reports indicate that Russia has also used North Korean soldiers and has actively recruited foreign nationals to fight in Ukraine. A Russian investigative report from April identified over 1,500 foreign fighters from 48 different countries serving in Russian ranks.