KATHMANDU: In eastern Ukraine, Ukrainian forces, facing a numerical disadvantage against advancing Russian troops, have retreated from positions near three villages. President Zelenskyy has urgently appealed for the delivery of Patriot air defense systems from allies. The worsening situation at the frontlines is compounded by delays in receiving US weapons following Congress's approval of a substantial aid package for Ukraine.

Despite Russian advances and disruptions to supply lines, Ukrainian defenses are not expected to collapse, according to analysts. The Russian military is alleged to be targeting Ukrainian railways to impede the delivery of US weapons. Ukrainian forces anticipate stabilization once promised US weapons are delivered and are replenishing exhausted units with fresh brigades.

Russian forces have reportedly made significant territorial gains, including the capture of Novobakhmutivka village. Key battlegrounds like Chasiv Yar and Ivanivske are fiercely contested, with Russian defense ministry claiming repulsion of Ukrainian counterattacks. Meanwhile, Kharkiv, subjected to airstrikes, faces deliberate destruction by Russia, rendering parts uninhabitable.

In other developments, Russian drones targeted Mykolaiv, damaging infrastructure and setting a hotel ablaze. The strike is claimed to have targeted a shipyard and a hotel housing alleged mercenaries. Additionally, Russian authorities report downing Ukrainian drones and cite damage to infrastructure in southern Belgorod province.