Russia

The Security Service of Ukraine carried out another large-scale special operation aimed at reducing the aggressor state’s military and economic capabilities. Ukrainian forces struck a Russian tanker belonging to the “shadow fleet” in the Black Sea and also carried out strikes on three oil depots in the Stavropol Krai of the Russian Federation.

On the night of Friday, July 18, drones attacked logistics centers belonging to the Russian company Wildberries in two regions of the Russian Federation. Seven workers were killed and dozens of employees were injured as a result of the strikes.

According to the results of the first quarter of 2026, the Russian Federation’s federal budget received $13.04 billion in corporate income tax, which is 29.37% more than last year’s figure. However, this growth comes exclusively against the backdrop of a 20% decline in the aggregate profits of Russian companies—to $109.74 billion.

Large-scale deforestation has been observed in Russia’s border regions near Finland. In the cleared areas, the Russian military is actively building new hangars for equipment, weapons depots, and barracks.

In an interview with SHELTER, former Commanding General of U.S. Army Europe Ben Hodges discusses the risks of a possible Russian provocation against NATO, the changing tone in Washington, and why he believes Crimea remains the key to ending the war.