Sweden has supplied Ukraine with ASC 890 surveillance aircraft, marking the first time Ukraine has had this capability since the Soviet Union era. Swedish Defense Minister Pal Jonson emphasized the aircraft’s role in identifying incoming threats, such as cruise missiles and drones, and relaying data to F-16 fighter jets. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed the critical importance of this aid to Ukraine’s defense.

In related developments, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken highlighted that American weapons are stabilizing the Ukrainian front against intensified Russian attacks. The U.S. recently opened an artillery factory in Mesquite, Texas, aiming to produce 100,000 155mm shells monthly.

Mediazona, a Russian outlet, reported nearly 5,000 Russian soldiers under 24 years old have died in the conflict, including 1,400 under 20. Other incidents include explosions near the Kerch Bridge to Crimea, though details remain unverified.

NATO foreign ministers plan to discuss long-term military aid for Ukraine, potentially pledging €100 billion over five years. Meanwhile, Chinese support for Russia’s missile and drone capabilities has been a point of concern for U.S. officials.

In southern Ukraine, Russian strikes killed two civilians in Nikopol. Separately, Ukrainian drones targeted Russian early-warning radar stations, prompting U.S. concerns about potential escalation and strategic stability between Moscow and Washington.