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In a significant step to bolster its long-term security, the Ukrainian government has signed a preliminary agreement to purchase as many as 100 Rafale warplanes, drones, air defence systems and additional essential equipment from the French Republic. This deal was formalized by Ukraine's leader Zelenskyy and French president Emmanuel Macron during a joint press briefing at the Elysée presidential residence. Zelenskyy described the pact as “an unprecedented agreement.”

Against Their Will Taken Children: Relatives Cut Off Communication

A number of relatives of Ukrainian minors who were forcibly deported to the Russian Federation have raised concerns about their fate, stating that every line of communication has been severed. At a uncommon news conference in Paris, a legal guardian, who is responsible for two children removed after Russia's widespread military action of the country in recent years, stated that officials in Russia are ignoring every appeal to facilitate the minors' return.

Drone Strike Targets Turkish-Flagged Tanker in Odesa

A drone hit a Turkish-flagged ship and set it ablaze in southern the Odesa region, authorities reported. This event took place just a day after the Ukrainian president signed a deal to import American liquefied natural gas through the area. The vessel was struck while unloading liquefied petroleum gas at Izmail harbor, according to Turkey's maritime authority. All 16 crew members aboard evacuated and no one was hurt.

Romania's Officials Evacuate Villages Following Drone Attack

Romanian officials said they had evacuated two communities near the Ukraine border after the drone attack on the MT Orinda. Since invading the country in recent years, Moscow has repeatedly attacked Ukrainian harbors in the Danube area, triggering warnings in neighbouring Romania.

US President Donald Trump Open to Sign Russia Sanctions Legislation

US president Trump is willing to approve a bill to enact sanctions on Russia, as long as he retains final authority authority over any such actions, an high-ranking White House official said. The U.S. president informed journalists late on Sunday that it was “acceptable to me” that GOP members were drafting legislation to apply restrictions on nations doing business with Russia over its failure to reach a peace deal with Ukraine.

Poland's Leader Describes Rail Blast an “Never-Before-Seen Act of Sabotage”

The Polish prime minister, Donald Tusk, has labeled an explosion along a part of railway line employed in deliveries to the country as an “unprecedented instance of disruption” that could have led to catastrophe. This statement coincided with a statement from public prosecutors saying that an investigation had been initiated “concerning acts of disruption of a terror-related kind […] carried out on behalf of a foreign spy service against the nation of Poland.”

Chinese Premier Shows Willingness to Deepen Cooperation with Russia

China is ready to deepen cooperation with Russia in the energy sector, farming and other financial ventures, Premier Li said during a meeting with Russia's leader Mishustin in Moscow. Li informed his counterpart that the country welcomes more farm and food-related goods from Russia, as per the official news agency. The Chinese side also desires that Russia will make it easier for companies from China to put money and operate there, the source mentioned. Mishustin assured his counterpart that the partnership between the both nations has repeatedly proven its strength to external challenges.