Conflict enters 1,710th day

The Russo-Ukrainian conflict entered its 1,710th day on October 29, 2026, marked by renewed Ukrainian attacks on Russian refineries and the closure of a prominent Russian newspaper.

Ukraine targets Russian energy infrastructure

According to Russian deputy energy minister Alexander Novak, Ukraine has resumed strikes on Russian refineries, targeting three refineries and a gas complex. Independent Russian media Astra reported an attack on a refinery in Samara, 800 km from the Ukrainian border, with images showing black smoke.

Attack causes casualties

The governor of Samara, Vyacheslav Fedorichtchev, stated that two men died in the attack by Ukrainian drones. These strikes aim to disrupt Russian hydrocarbon revenue funding the war effort.

Prominent Russian newspaper closes

The Russian newspaper Novaia Gazeta, a historical bastion of independent press, announced its closure after 30 years, citing pressure from Russian authorities and intelligence services. Editor-in-chief Sergei Sokolov stated this in a YouTube video.

Humanitarian ceasefire allows evacuation

A humanitarian ceasefire, announced by Melania Trump and in effect since Tuesday, allowed the evacuation of 25 buses and nine ambulances from Olechky, a city under Russian occupation in southern Ukraine. The evacuation, according to Russian human rights mediator Iana Lantartova, saw the convoy split between those wishing to return to Ukrainian-controlled territory and those heading to Russia.

Evacuation numbers remain unclear

Neither Moscow nor Kyiv specified the number of people evacuated, though estimates suggest about 2,000 remained in Olechky, down from 24,000 at the start of the war.

Lavrov’s presence sparks tension

The presence of Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov at the G20 foreign ministers meeting in Atlanta caused unrest, with Europeans avoiding a group photo. German minister Johann Wadephul stated the need to exchange differences of opinion without sending misleading visual signals.

Trump invites Putin to G20

Meanwhile, Donald Trump has invited Vladimir Putin to the G20 summit in December but is still awaiting confirmation of his attendance.