Ukraine war sees possible de‑escalation talks and Russian capture of Konstantinovka

Kyrylo Budanov, head of Ukraine’s Presidential Office, said there is still a chance to end the active phase of Russia’s war in Ukraine by 2026, but warned that a further escalation is likely before any de‑escalation. He emphasized that Ukraine will not make territorial concessions and that continued battlefield success is essential for maintaining Western, particularly U.S., support. Budanov also highlighted Ukraine’s campaign to disrupt Russian logistics in occupied Crimea, noting recent drone attacks that caused blackouts in several Ukrainian regions.

In parallel, reports from early July 2026 indicate a shift in the war narrative across Europe. Ukrainian air force officials complained of a low success rate in intercepting Russian ballistic missiles, citing a shortage of PAC‑2 and PAC‑3 interceptors. Russian officials announced the capture of the fortified city of Konstantinovka in Donetsk Oblast after intense fighting, describing it as a key industrial and logistical hub. The announcement underscores Russia’s ongoing offensive actions while Ukraine struggles to replenish its missile‑defence supplies.